Where to Buy PUL Fabric for Your DIY Projects: The Ultimate Guide

Finding PUL fabric—a versatile material used in many DIY projects, especially for making waterproof items like cloth diapers, reusable sanitary pads, and wet bags—can seem daunting. But once you know where to look, the process becomes much easier.

Let’s jump straight into a scenario you might be familiar with: You’re standing in a fabric store, overwhelmed by rows and rows of textiles. You’ve done your research online, but standing here now, you can’t seem to find the specific fabric you need. Panic starts to set in. You came all the way to the store, and leaving empty-handed is not an option. If this sounds like you, keep reading. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a solid grasp of where to buy PUL fabric, whether online or in-store, and what to look for to get the best quality.

What is PUL Fabric, and Why is It So Popular?

Polyurethane Laminate (PUL) is a fabric with a polyester base and a thin layer of waterproof polyurethane coating. The fabric is breathable, lightweight, and most importantly, water-resistant, making it ideal for products that require moisture barriers. What sets it apart from other fabrics is its durability and versatility. It can be used in home sewing projects, baby care items, medical supplies, and even outdoor gear.

PUL fabric’s popularity skyrocketed in the past decade thanks to the eco-conscious movement. More people are looking for ways to reduce waste, and reusable products made from PUL are an excellent solution.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying PUL Fabric

Before diving into the best places to buy, it’s essential to understand a few key aspects of PUL fabric:

1. Weight and Thickness: PUL fabrics come in different weights, generally measured in ounces. Lighter PUL is softer and more flexible, perfect for baby items or clothing. Heavier PUL is more durable and ideal for outdoor gear.
2. Breathability: Some PUL fabrics have higher breathability than others, which is crucial if you're making items like cloth diapers or medical covers.
3. Eco-friendliness: Look for PUL fabrics that are Oeko-Tex certified, meaning they are free from harmful chemicals.
4. Prints and Colors: Depending on your project, you may need a specific color or pattern. Some suppliers offer a vast range of choices, while others focus on solid colors.

Where to Buy PUL Fabric: Best Online Retailers

Now that you know what to look for, let’s get to the main point: where to buy PUL fabric. Here are some of the top retailers, both online and in-store, where you can find high-quality PUL fabrics.

1. Fabric.com

Fabric.com is one of the largest online retailers for all kinds of textiles, and their PUL fabric selection is no exception. You’ll find a wide range of colors, patterns, and weights. Their website is user-friendly, and the search filters make it easy to find exactly what you need.

Pros:

• Vast selection
• Reasonable prices
• Fast shipping

Cons:

• Stock can run out quickly, especially for popular prints
• Not the best for smaller, custom orders

2. Joann Fabrics

Joann Fabrics is a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts, and they offer both online and in-store shopping. They usually have a decent selection of PUL fabric, and if you’re lucky, you can catch some great sales. Their app often offers coupons that can help you save a lot on bulk purchases.

Pros:

• Convenient for in-store shopping
• Frequent sales and coupons
• Large variety of fabrics

Cons:

• Limited in-store stock in some locations
• Quality can vary between batches

3. Wazoodle Fabrics

If you’re looking for eco-friendly, high-quality PUL fabric, look no further than Wazoodle Fabrics. They specialize in sustainable textiles, and their ProSoft PUL line is a favorite among eco-conscious shoppers. All their PUL fabrics are Oeko-Tex certified and manufactured in North America.

Pros:

• Eco-friendly, high-quality PUL
• Manufactured in North America
• Oeko-Tex certified

Cons:

• Prices are higher than other retailers
• Limited selection of patterns

4. Etsy

Etsy is a marketplace where small business owners and individual creators sell unique items, including PUL fabric. If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind patterns or are supporting small businesses, Etsy is a great option. However, always check the seller reviews to ensure you’re getting high-quality fabric.

Pros:

• Unique, custom prints
• Supports small businesses
• Great for custom orders

Cons:

• Quality varies between sellers
• Shipping can be slow

Where to Buy PUL Fabric: Physical Stores

While online shopping is incredibly convenient, sometimes you just want to feel the fabric before you buy it. Here are some of the best brick-and-mortar stores where you can find PUL fabric:

1. Local Fabric Stores

Many independent fabric stores stock PUL, especially those that cater to eco-friendly or DIY communities. If you’re not sure where to start, ask the store staff—they’re often knowledgeable and can guide you toward the best fabric for your project.

2. Walmart

Believe it or not, Walmart has a decent selection of fabrics, including PUL. They don’t always have the widest variety, but they often have good prices, and you can find basic solid colors that are perfect for larger projects.

3. Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby is another chain that often carries PUL fabric in its stores. They may not have as large a selection as Joann Fabrics, but their prices are competitive, and they frequently run sales.

Conclusion: Where Should You Buy PUL Fabric?

So, where should you buy your PUL fabric? The answer depends on your needs. If you’re looking for a large selection and fast shipping, Fabric.com is a solid option. For eco-friendly, high-quality PUL, Wazoodle Fabrics is your go-to. If you prefer in-store shopping, try Joann Fabrics or local fabric shops.

Whatever your project, choosing the right fabric is the first step to success. Happy sewing!