How To Wick Fleece

How to Wick Fleece: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners and Experts

So you've got some beautiful fleece fabric and you're ready to create something amazing. But before you start sewing, you need to understand wicking. Wicking is the process of drawing moisture away from the skin, keeping you dry and comfortable. Fleece, with its unique properties, is particularly good at this. But to maximize its wicking capabilities, you need to know how to prepare and care for it. This guide covers everything from choosing the right fleece to maintaining its performance over time.

Understanding Fleece and its Wicking Properties

Fleece is a synthetic fabric known for its softness, warmth, and excellent moisture-wicking properties. These properties come from its construction: it's made of fine, tightly spun fibers that create tiny air pockets. This traps heat and allows for breathability, while the fibers themselves wick moisture away from your skin. However, not all fleece is created equal.

Types of Fleece and Wicking Capabilities:

• Microfleece: This lightweight fleece is excellent for layering and activities where breathability is key. Its fine fibers wick well, but its thinness means it doesn't provide as much warmth as other types.

• Polar Fleece: A thicker, heavier fleece ideal for colder weather. It offers superior insulation and still wicks moisture effectively, though perhaps not as quickly as microfleece.

• Sherpa Fleece: Known for its incredibly soft, plush texture, Sherpa fleece is less effective at wicking moisture compared to microfleece and polar fleece. It’s more suitable for lining garments or creating cozy accessories.

Optimizing Fleece Wicking: Pre-Wash and Care

Before sewing with your fleece, a pre-wash is recommended. This removes any manufacturing finishes that could impede its wicking ability and prevent it from absorbing moisture properly.

Pre-Washing Your Fleece:

1. Check the care label: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Gentle wash: Use a mild detergent and cold water. Avoid harsh chemicals or fabric softeners, as these can clog the fibers and reduce wicking.
3. Air dry: Tumble drying can damage the fibers and reduce their ability to wick. Air drying is the best option to preserve the fabric’s properties.

Maintaining Fleece Wicking Performance:

• Regular washing: Wash your fleece garments after each use, especially if they’ve been exposed to sweat or moisture.
• Avoid harsh detergents: Stick to mild detergents and avoid bleach, which can damage the fibers.
• Air dry whenever possible: This prevents shrinking and preserves the fabric’s wicking capabilities. If you must tumble dry, use a low heat setting.
• Avoid fabric softener: Fabric softener leaves a residue that can impede the wicking action of the fibers.

Choosing the Right Fleece for Your Project

The type of fleece you choose significantly impacts its wicking performance. Consider the activity and climate for which you're making the garment.

Activity Level:

• High-intensity activities: Microfleece is a great choice due to its excellent breathability and moisture-wicking properties.
• Low-intensity activities: Polar fleece offers more warmth and is suitable for milder conditions.

Conclusion: Maximize Your Fleece's Potential

By understanding fleece's properties and following these simple care instructions, you can ensure that your projects will perform optimally, keeping you dry, comfortable, and warm. Remember, proper pre-washing and mindful care are essential to maximizing your fleece's natural wicking capabilities. Happy crafting!