Waterproof Fabric Guide – The Sewing Directory

PUL, or polyurethane laminate

PUL fabric is a special fabric because not only is it waterproof but it is also breathable.  This means that heat can escape through the fabric so you can wear it without getting all sweaty!

PUL has 2 sides to it, one side is made from a polyester knit which means it has a slight stretch which is great for clothing as you get a bit of “give”, important when you’re moving around as there’s less chance of a seam giving way under stress.

One side of the polyester knit has a laminate coating applied so it’s slippery and shiny; this is the waterproof layer. The fabric will be waterproof no matter which side is on the outside.  However given that the laminate side is a shiney it is best to have this side away from the skin.

PUL is a soft flexible fabric which doesn’t really crease and it air dries in super quick time and it doesn’t fray when cut.  Using a walking foot or teflon foot will make it easier to sew.