The Sewing Place
The Emporia => Fun with Fabric => Topic started by: Roger on July 30, 2019, 23:26:57 PM
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Hi,
I’m thinking of starting a new project! I want to make a ‘dry robe’ these are basically a waterproof/wind proof shell with a warm/absorbent layer inside. The manufacturers are exorbitant and don’t recommend regular washing, which seems a bit rubbish as they’re best for after wet/muddy sports, dog walking and the like and be of a size that is possible to change in too. So I figured I could do better, especially as I’d made similar before out of grey military blankets and a natural cotton liner with a roughly buffer jacket style.
I thought maybe a prosoft PLU outer as it’s tough, waterproof and good for washing, then coupling it up with bamboo fleece? I’m looking for a luxurious feel but also practical and warm. The original dryrobes have like a shag pile fleece in them, but tbh I’m not sure my machines will handle that easily, or that I want all that bulk.
Any advise or suggestions gratefully received!
Thank you
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How waterproof do you need it to be? Ripstop nylon mught be more comfortable than PUL.
Bamboo fleece would be a good choice to go with it.
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How about soft shell fleece, light but wonderfully warm and cosy.
It’s showerproof not fully waterproof, but it’s very difficult to make a handmade item fully waterproof anyway.
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Thank you Brenda and Ellabella.
The big attraction of PUL especially the prosoft is it’s washable-ness but it’s definitely worth checking ripstop is there a variety you would recommend? As I usually find it a bit stiff.
I was a bit concerned about going pure fleece, as it’ll probably end up pretty voluminous and long (they’re almost like a cross between a dressing gown and trench coat) I thought the weight might be too much for pure fleece without a external reinforcing layer.
In terms of showers to survive, it’s the British weather.... who knows?
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I've only used ripstop for fold-away shopping bags, but I've had two different types, some of it is coated, so I presume a bit more waterproof, but also a bit stiffer. After a fair amount of use the coating started to flake and look a bit tatty but I don't suppose it would come to that in a changing robe.
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Have a look at Pennine Outdoor https://www.pennineoutdoor.co.uk/
They have an excellent range, and are very helpful if you email them and tell them about the garment you want to make. They advised me when I was looking for a waterproof fabric and inner fleece for a dog coat.
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There's also Point North (https://www.profabrics.co.uk/) For outdoor fabrics.
I'd be looking for a ripstop or lightweight waterproof.
Would you need the lining to be absorbent? Fleece won't be, although I don't know about bamboo fleece...
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Thanks all,
Thats really useful - I have flashed up the websites for a rummage :) nothing like a little shopping.
I might try a raglan sleeve to help reduce the number of seams, reckon theres going to be so flat felling going on too.. at least it doesnt need to be a fitted item of clothing :) just a nod in the right sizing...
Thank you Jesster, sounds like a similar construction to what I have in mind, the drying aspect might be a pain. Whats the texture of the PUL like?
Actually Bodge - I think you're right the lining doesn't need to be absorbent, just warm and insulating. So if you've stepped out of a shower (warm) in a field and the the day is cool/British you throw it on over your trunks and go back to your tent. Being absorbent would probably interfere with the warmth.
Thank you all, I'm really appreciating your wisdom.
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Big poncho shape - few seams.
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Fajita - youre so right, last time I based it on a semi circle with arms and a hood and the front overlapped got rid of a lot of seams and no drafts :)
Jesster - I think you're right about the weight - it might end up too hefty.. I think a departure to a more technical fabric might be the right route, just need to find one thats washable :)