Sewing with Tula Pink Floral Reef Vinyl: Projects and Tips
By Sallie Tomato | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to sew with Tula Pink Floral Reef vinyl for bags, wallets, and outdoor projects. Get practical tips for cutting, stitching, and caring for vinyl.
Quick Answer
Sew Tula Pink Floral Reef vinyl with a walking foot, use a longer stitch, and test on scraps first. For best results, clip curves and avoid backstitching.
Why This Vinyl Works for Bags and Outdoor Projects
Tula Pink Floral Reef vinyl is waterproof and easy to sew through, making it a practical choice for bags, wallets, and outdoor accessories. Its pliable, durable nature means it can handle rain and moisture without damage, so you can use it confidently for items that see daily wear.
Because this vinyl is sold in different cut sizes, you can choose the amount that fits your project. Whether you need a small piece for a pocket or a longer length for a tote, the continuous cuts help you avoid unnecessary seams.
Trade-Off: Vinyl Sticks and Shows Marks
Vinyl can stick to your sewing machine foot, and pins can leave permanent holes. Use a walking foot or a Teflon foot to help it feed smoothly, and use clips instead of pins to avoid visible marks.
Also, vinyl does not breathe, so it can feel less comfortable against the skin for wearable items. Reserve it for bags, organizers, and outdoor gear where waterproofing matters more than breathability.
How to Sew with Tula Pink Floral Reef Vinyl
- Prepare your machine and tools: Install a walking foot or Teflon foot, insert a new universal or microtex needle (size 80/12), and set your machine to a straight stitch with a stitch length of 3.0–3.5 mm. Lower your presser foot pressure if your machine allows it. Test on a scrap piece first to confirm the stitch tension and feed before sewing your project.
- Cut and secure the vinyl: Cut vinyl with a rotary cutter and a cutting mat, or use sharp scissors. Do not use pins—they leave permanent holes. Instead, use binder clips or Wonder Clips to hold layers together. Always cut on a flat, clean surface to avoid scratches that can show on the finished piece.
- Sew slowly and avoid backstitching: Sew at a slow, steady speed to prevent the vinyl from stretching or sticking. Do not backstitch at the seams—start and stop with a few hand stitches or leave long thread tails to tie off. If the vinyl sticks, place a strip of tissue paper under the presser foot and tear it away after sewing.
- Clip curves and finish edges: After sewing curves, clip the seam allowance with small snips, being careful not to cut the stitches. For raw edges, use bias tape or a simple turned hem to keep the vinyl from cracking or peeling over time. Test your finishing method on a scrap piece to see how the vinyl behaves before applying it to your project.
- Care for your finished vinyl project: Clean vinyl with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals and high heat, and store the finished item away from direct sunlight for long periods to prevent fading or stiffening. If you plan to fold or roll the item, pad the crease with a soft cloth to prevent permanent crease lines.
Tula Pink Floral Reef Vinyl Options
- Tula Pink Floral Reef Collection - School Crossing Vinyl 9" Cut: Sold by the 9" cut; easy-to-sew through, pliable, and durable. A 9-inch cut is a good size for small vinyl bag windows, pockets, or craft projects where you want to test the material without committing to a larger piece.
Tula Pink Floral Reef Collection - School Crossing Vinyl 9" Cut - Tula Pink Floral Reef Collection - Lil' Shelly Vinyl 12" Cuts: Sold by the 12" cuts; easy-to-sew through, pliable, and durable. The 12-inch cuts give you more room for larger panels, such as the front of a tote or an organizer pocket, while still being manageable at the machine.
Tula Pink Floral Reef Collection - Lil' Shelly Vinyl 12" Cuts - Tula Pink Floral Reef Collection - Lil' Shelly Vinyl: Sold by the quarter yard; continuous piece cut for you. Ordering by the quarter yard lets you buy a continuous length, which is ideal for full bag panels or straps without piecing seams.
