Printed vinyl: for a bag that makes a statement

Want your bag to be the first thing people notice? Printed vinyl gives you prints, colors, and textures that can turn even a simple tote into something special. It's durable, water-resistant, and easy to wipe clean.

I like it for handbags, totes, crossbody bags, wallets, and accent panels. Let a print be the star, then add a coordinating solid for straps or a bag bottom. Keep an eye on seam bulk when several layers of vinyl come together.

Best for: Statement exteriors, pockets, and accents that need an easy-care surface.

Faux leather: for a polished look

Faux leather adds a classic look without using genuine leather. Smooth, milled, and textured finishes give you plenty of ways to change the feel of a pattern.

Use it for an entire bag or just the handles, bottom, and trim. It looks especially good next to printed vinyl: the solid faux leather gives your print room to shine. Check the thickness and stretch of your chosen material against the pattern and the number of layers your machine can sew.

Best for: Handbags, straps, handles, bottoms, and coordinating accents.

LinerTex™: for a lining that's ready to sew

If fusing interfacing to your lining is your least favorite part of bag making, take a look at LinerTex™ water-resistant fabric. It has body built in, so most bag projects don't need an extra layer of woven interfacing on the lining. That's one less step before you get to the fun part.

It's a practical choice for everyday bags, travel bags, organizers, and wallet interiors, especially when you want a lining you can wipe clean. LinerTex™ comes in different colors, prints, and finishes, including nylon- and polyester-based options. Check the listing for the particular finish you're choosing.

Best for: Linings with built-in body and an easy-care finish.

Water-resistant canvas: for a softer finish

Water-resistant canvas is a good choice when you want canvas that's lighter and more flexible. Its finish helps repel everyday splashes, and it can work on the outside or inside of a bag.

For a relaxed tote, you may like it just as it is. If your pattern calls for more shape, add the interfacing or stabilizer that suits the design. Water-resistant means it can handle some moisture; it doesn't mean every finished seam is waterproof.

Best for: Flexible totes, everyday bags, and linings where you want a softer hand.

Waterproof canvas: for built-in structure

Our waterproof canvas has a PVC backing that gives it more body than our water-resistant canvas. For many bags, you can skip woven interfacing on the canvas itself, saving prep time and extra layers.

It's useful for tote bags, backpacks, organizers, and bags that need to stand up to busy days. The fabric is easy to wipe clean, but a sewn bag can still let water in through its seams or openings, so choose your construction with the bag's use in mind.

Best for: More structured exteriors and practical, easy-care linings.

Ask yourself these questions before you buy

• Will I carry this bag every day, or is it for a special occasion?
• Do I want the bag to stand up on its own or feel soft and slouchy?
• Will it carry heavy items or need to handle spills?
• How many layers will meet at the thickest seam?
• What does my pattern recommend for the exterior and lining?

There's nothing wrong with mixing materials. A printed vinyl exterior, faux leather straps, and LinerTex™ lining each do a different job, and together they can make a bag feel like yours.

Don't forget what's underneath

The fabric gets most of the attention, but the rest of the supplies affect the finished bag, too. Check your pattern for woven interfacing and stabilizer, then choose hardware, thread, and zippers that suit the project.

Materials with built-in body, such as waterproof canvas or LinerTex™, may need less interfacing. Always consider the pattern and your desired finish. Even vinyl or faux leather can benefit from support in certain spots, depending on its stretch and the bag's construction.