How to Sew with Microsuede: Care, Cutting, and Stitching Tips
By Sallie Tomato | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to sew microsuede for bags and accessories with practical tips on cutting, stitching, and caring for this water-resistant vegan fabric.
Quick Answer
To sew with microsuede successfully, use a sharp needle, a walking foot, and test your stitch on scraps before starting your project.
Why Microsuede Is a Great Choice for Bags
Microsuede is a faux suede made from polyester, offering a soft, smooth appearance and drape that mimics natural suede at a lower cost. It is vegan, durable, and pliable, making it ideal for bags, accessories, and home decor.
Unlike natural suede, microsuede is water-resistant and easier to care for, which is a major advantage for everyday bags that face the elements.
Microsuede vs. Suede: Key Differences
Natural suede is delicate and requires special cleaning, while microsuede is more forgiving and can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. Microsuede also resists water better, so it holds up well in rainy conditions without staining easily.
The polyester base makes microsuede more affordable and easier to sew than natural suede, which can be thick and slippery. This makes it a practical choice for beginners and experienced sewists alike.
Step-by-Step Guide to Sewing with Microsuede
- Prepare Your Fabric: Pre-wash or steam your microsuede to remove any wrinkles and prevent shrinkage after sewing. Press with a low-heat iron and a pressing cloth to avoid damaging the nap. Always test a small corner for heat sensitivity before pressing the entire piece.
- Cut with Care: Use a rotary cutter and a cutting mat for clean, accurate cuts. Microsuede has a slight stretch, so pin or use pattern weights to prevent shifting. Cut all pieces in the same direction to maintain consistent color and texture. Avoid using scissors for long curves—they can cause jagged edges and uneven pieces.
- Choose the Right Needle and Thread: Use a size 70/10 or 80/12 sharp needle and a polyester or all-purpose thread. A walking foot helps feed the fabric evenly and prevents stretching or puckering. Test your stitch on a scrap piece to ensure the tension is correct before sewing your project.
- Stitch and Finish Seams: Sew with a slightly longer stitch length (2.5–3.0) to reduce puckering. Because microsuede does not fray, you can finish seams with a zigzag stitch or simply trim close to the seam line. Press seams open with a cool iron and a pressing cloth to keep the nap intact.
- Care for Your Finished Project: To clean microsuede, gently wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid machine washing or tumble drying, as this can damage the fabric's texture. Store bags away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Spot-clean stains immediately to prevent them from setting into the fabric.
Microsuede Products from Sallie Tomato
- Field Tan Microsuede: Field Tan Microsuede is a faux suede made from polyester fabric with a suede-like texture. Its soft, pliable hand makes it easy to sew into bags and accessories, while the water-resistant finish adds durability.
Field Tan Microsuede - Fossil Grey Microsuede: Fossil Grey Microsuede offers the same vegan, water-resistant benefits with a versatile neutral tone. The grey shade pairs well with many color palettes, making it a flexible choice for various bag designs.
Fossil Grey Microsuede
