Combining materials is a great way to accomplish the exact look you desire in cosplay. When it comes to fabric and foam you can always use adhesive to put them together. There is the question though of can you sew into EVA foam? The short answer is yes. But there are some do’s and don’ts with this to consider.
How to Sew into EVA Foam: Do’s & Don’ts
You’ll want to think about the following do’s and don’ts when you sew fabric to EVA foam:
- Don’t use a machine: Even with a machine meant for leathers, foam is thick and not similar to leather or fabric. Thus sewing machines aren’t designed for it. I’d avoid running them through your machine to prevent damages unless it’s very thin foams like 2mm.
- Do use leather sewing needles: In my experience, using leather hand sewing needles has worked the best to sew into foam. They are thick and durable so they can pierce through most thicknesses and won’t break easily. For sewing machines, heavy duty needles would be best.
- Do use leather waxed sewing thread: Sewing thread for leather is also thicker and thus more durable. It can form a knot that won’t just pull through the foam and the seams won’t break easily.
- Don’t use 10mm foam: 10mm foam is honestly just too thick for sewing. It’s going to take a lot of work to puncture through it. You can try to use it but I don’t recommend it since you’re just making a lot of work for yourself when you can use glue instead.
Will Sewing Through EVA Foam Break Standard Machine Needles
Depending on how thick the foam is and if you are also sewing fabric on top, it can break your standard needles. Heavy Duty needles would be better for this option.
AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE: there may be a few links in this post that are affiliate links. Clicking these links or making purchases through these links can help support myself and this blog.