Scuba Fabric – The Latest Fashion Dress Material

The name of scuba fabric makes an individual think about a very popular water sports activity called Scuba Diving. This fabric comes with exclusive features and a completely different sewing technique. All these make it stand apart from other common fabrics. To beginner sewers, scuba material often creates confusion. However, let’s keep all your confusion at bay as we are going to make a detailed discussion on scuba fabric.

Scuba fabric is a double knit clothing material that is generally made from synthetic polyester. Commonly, the fashion experts choose it to craft dancewear, party wear, leggings, and dresses for easy and carefree maintenance. But, while sewing scuba fabric, a lot of precautions need to be taken, such as the use of a ballpoint needle and larger stitches. Now, let’s take a closer look at scuba fabric.

Characteristics of Scuba Fabric

Texture

Scuba fabric is smooth and soft to the touch, with a slightly stretchy feel. This texture is created by the tight weave of the polyester and spandex fibers used to make the fabric.

Thickness

Scuba fabric is thick and sturdy, which gives it a firm structure that can hold its shape well. This thickness is also what makes the fabric heavier and denser than some other fabrics.

Weight

Due to its composition of polyester and spandex, scuba fabric is heavier and denser than many other fabrics. This weight can make it feel substantial and give it a luxurious quality.

Composition

Scuba fabric is typically made of a combination of polyester and spandex fibers. This blend creates a strong and durable fabric that is also stretchy and easy to move in.

Water resistance

Scuba fabric is naturally resistant to water and moisture, which makes it a great choice for swimwear and other water-related activities. It can also dry quickly, which is an added bonus.

Durability

Scuba fabric is highly durable and resistant to wear and tear. This means that it can withstand frequent use and is less likely to develop holes or pilling.

 

 

Multicolor Jaguar Design Polyester Scuba Fabric

How Is Scuba Fabric Made?

  • Scuba fabric is a type of double-knit fabric, which means it is made by interlocking two layers of fabric together.
  • The two layers of fabric are typically made from a blend of synthetic fibers, such as polyester and spandex.
  • The synthetic fibers used in scuba fabric are chosen for their ability to stretch and hold their shape, as well as their durability and resistance to wrinkles and creases.
  • The two layers of fabric are joined together using a special type of knit stitch called a double knit stitch, which creates a thick, dense fabric with a smooth, uniform surface.
  • The resulting scuba fabric has a number of desirable properties, including a smooth and silky feel, excellent stretch and recovery, and resistance to wrinkles and creases.
  • Scuba fabric is also known for its ability to hold vibrant colors and prints, making it a popular choice for fashion and activewear.

Difference between Scuba and Neoprene fabric

Scuba and neoprene both are different fabrics but most people have a confusion regarding these two. So, here, we help you find out the primary differences between scuba and neoprene fabric.

Neoprene Fabric

It’s a spongy and artificial rubber substance that is sandwiched between two different fabrics. Neoprene is typically made of nylon or polyester. Sometimes, elastine or spandex is combined to enhance the flexibility of this fabric. While using in making a wetsuit, this stretchable quality helps an individual to move easily. Therefore, swimsuits are made of neoprene fabric which offers effortless swimming ability.

There is a wide variety available in neoprene fabric. Some are nylon coated neoprene whereas others are polyester coated neoprene.

Scuba Fabric

Scuba is a neoprene-type fabric but different from neoprene. Scuba fabric is well-spun polyester with lycra or spandex for double knit. It’s a technique where two fabrics are carefully knitted together to make a brilliant effect. Though double knit, scuba is thinner, flexible, and has a smooth surface with a springy feel. Along with that Scuba fabric offers a better drape ability.

Like Neoprene fabric, Scuba is not breathable and as a result, it makes a person feel warm while wearing the dresses made of it. Hence, Scuba fabric is never suggested to be used for making summer attires. Since this fabric holds its actual shape, it is considered to be a wonderful feature to use for making jacket, top, winter dress, skirt, and swimwear.

Nowadays, printed scuba fabric is also available with an attractive look and premium quality. Most commonly, the body-hugging dresses are made of scuba fabric which everyone will like to wear. Even, for the floaty effect, Scuba fabric is a great choice to make plus-size dresses.

When it comes to embroidery, both Neoprene and Scuba can be taken. But, you need to follow the proper sewing guide as neoprene and scuba are different from each other.

Multicolor Animal Design Polyester Scuba Fabric

Care and Maintenance of Scuba Fabric

Care

Maintenance

Washing

Scuba fabric can typically be washed in a washing machine on a gentle cycle using cold water and mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener, as these can damage the fabric.

Drying

Scuba fabric should be hung to dry or laid flat to dry. Avoid putting it in the dryer, as the high heat can damage the fabric and cause it to shrink or lose its shape.

Ironing

Scuba fabric does not typically need to be ironed, as it is resistant to wrinkles and creases. If necessary, iron on a low heat setting or use a steamer.

Storing

Store scuba fabric in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid folding it, as this can create creases that are difficult to remove. Instead, hang it or roll it up loosely.

Dry Cleaning

Scuba fabric can be dry cleaned, but it is not always necessary. Check the care label for specific instructions and recommendations.

 

Is scuba fabric good for summer

Scuba fabric may not be the ideal choice for summer wear. While it offers excellent stretch and structure, it is typically thick and doesn't breathe well, making it less suitable for hot weather. Its synthetic composition may trap heat and cause discomfort. Opt for lighter, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or lightweight blends to stay cool and comfortable during the summer months.

Buy premium Scuba fabric online

Sahni Fabrics is a leading online fabric store offering a wide range of premium quality fabrics with attractive deals and discounts. To buy scuba fabric online in India, you can visit their website by clicking on this link sahnifabrics.com. Also, check out other blogs to know more about the sewing guide of scuba fabric.