Intro
Water can penetrate a sewn product through the material, the needle holes, the sewing thread or the spaces between material layers. Conventional sewing threads may absorb moisture and transport it along the thread by capillary action. A water-repellent finish can delay this wicking effect and reduce the transport of moisture through the seam.
However, a water-repellent thread does not make a seam waterproof on its own. Reliable performance depends on the complete combination of thread, needle, material, stitch type, seam construction and, where required, seam sealing.
Water-repellent is not the same as waterproof
Water-repellent describes the ability to delay wetting and moisture transport. A waterproof seam must prevent water penetration under defined conditions. Needle holes that are too large, damaged coatings or unsuitable seam constructions can allow water to pass even when a water-repellent thread is used. Completely watertight seams normally require additional sealing, taping, welding or comparable measures.
Key factors to consider
- Thread finish: Select a thread with a suitable PFAS-free water-repellent finish to reduce wicking through the thread.
- Needle size: Use the smallest practical needle to keep stitch holes as small as possible.
- Material: The outer material itself must provide the required level of water repellency or impermeability.
- Stitch type and balance: A well-balanced lockstitch can help fill the stitch hole effectively.
- Seam construction: Folded layers, seam allowances and topstitching paths can create additional routes for water ingress.
- Testing: The complete material and seam combination must be tested under conditions that reflect the intended use.
Typical applications
- Outdoor jackets and workwear
- Shoes and boots
- Tents and awnings
- Bags and outdoor accessories
- Down products
- Automotive interiors and steering wheels
- Boat covers and outdoor furniture
Find the right AMANN solution
| AMANN product | Recommended use within this solution |
|---|---|
| Saba WRe | PFAS-free water-repellent core spun thread for apparel, workwear and water-repellent closing and topstitch seams. |
| Serafil WRe | PFAS-free water-repellent continuous filament for shoes, accessories and strong decorative seams. |
| Serafil Recycled WRe | Water-repellent continuous filament made from 100% recycled polyester; available as GRS certified. |
| Serafil fine Recycled WRe | Fine recycled solution for lightweight materials, down processing and delicate outdoor applications. |
| Serabraid WRe | Water-repellent braided thread for highly visible decorative and closing seams, particularly in footwear. |
| Outdoor-Pro | Bonded outdoor thread with PFAS-free WRe finish, excellent UV resistance and suitability for multidirectional sewing. |
| Serafil Automotive WRe | Water-repellent continuous filament developed for automotive trim, interiors, steering wheels and seatbelts. |
Important technical note
A water-repellent sewing thread delays moisture transport but does not guarantee a waterproof seam. The complete seam system must be validated, and sealing may be required for fully watertight constructions.