Why Cork Fabric Is a Game-Changer for Sewing Purses, Wallets, and More

Move over, leather—there’s a new favorite in town for handmade bags and accessories.

Have you seen cork fabric online and wondered what it is? You’re not alone. A lot of sewists are discovering this amazing material—and falling in love with how easy it is to work with.

Cork fabric, sometimes called cork leather, is made from the bark of cork oak trees. It’s a natural, renewable material that's bonded to a soft fabric backing, usually cotton or polyester. The result is a flexible, smooth material that looks and feels a lot like leather, but it's entirely plant-based and eco-friendly.

So, why is cork fabric perfect for purses, wallets, and bags?

Let’s break it down:

It’s naturally water-resistant, so rainy weather is no problem.

It won’t fray, which makes your bag edges look clean and polished, without extra finishing.

It’s easy to cut and sew, even on most domestic sewing machines.

It’s durable and scratch-resistant, which means your handmade item will last.

It comes in beautiful colors, textures, and prints—from earthy naturals to shimmering metallics.

And best of all, cork fabric is lightweight. That means no more heavy bags pulling on your shoulder.

Sewing Tips for Cork Fabric

If you’re used to sewing with cotton, cork will feel a little different—but don’t worry. It’s still beginner-friendly with just a few tweaks:

Use a microtex or universal needle (size 80/12 or 90/14 works well).

Choose a longer stitch length—around 3.0 mm—for neat topstitching.

Skip the pins—use clips instead to avoid leaving holes.

Press gently with a pressing cloth if needed—but avoid high heat.

Add a sturdy cotton lining or fusible fleece for structure.

Is it worth trying?

Absolutely! Whether you're sewing a wristlet, a crossbody bag, or a simple wallet, cork fabric adds a boutique-quality finish. It feels high-end without being high-maintenance, and your projects will stand out in all the right ways.

Where to find patterns

Check out the sewing patterns in The Needle Market shop—many of them are perfect for cork fabric. From zippered pouches to roomy totes, these projects are ready for a cork upgrade.

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© Rhonda Harris – For personal use only – www.theneedlemarket.com