Cork Fabric or Cork Leather: Sewing with Cork - More Versatile Than Ever!

How Is Cork Fabric / Cork Leather Made?

Cork fabric, often referred to as cork leather, is crafted from the high-quality middle layer of the cork oak's bark. Approximately 1.5 cm thick cork slabs are bonded using an organic adhesive, thinly sliced, and laminated like patchwork onto a fabric backing. This elaborate process preserves the natural cork grain, creating beautiful, unique patterns.

There are typically three quality grades (A – C) for cork fabric, differing in thickness and flexibility. More affordable fabrics tend to be thinner and more fragile. However, premium cork leather provides numerous benefits, discussed in the next sections.

Cork Leather, Cork Fabric, or Cork Skin?

The terms originate from the Portuguese "Pele de cortiça" (cork skin), referring to cork being sliced to the thinness of skin. While "cork fabric" is technically correct, "cork leather" is commonly used because of its leather-like feel.

What Is Cork Fabric?

Cork fabric is a vegan alternative to leather, made from the bark of cork oak trees, primarily grown in Portugal. The bark is harvested without harming the tree. Cork fabric generally has a thickness of about 0.7 to 1 mm and is bonded to a textile backing.

Moreover, cork fabric is available in a vast array of colors. Besides the natural look, you’ll find colorful, patterned, and textured designs, opening endless creative possibilities.

Advantages of Cork Fabric

Colors and Quality of Cork Fabric

Cork fabric comes in an almost limitless variety of colors, patterns, and textures. In addition to natural shades, colorful designs, metallic finishes, and stylish patterns are widely available.

Cork quality is typically classified into three grades: A, B, and C. Premium Grade A cork boasts a material thickness of around 0.7 to 0.9 mm. It is particularly soft, supple, durable, and long-lasting. Lower grades (B or C) tend to be thinner, less flexible, and more prone to damage. Price often reflects quality: higher-priced cork fabrics usually offer better performance and longevity.

Products made from premium cork are just as durable and robust as leather goods. Cork fabric is extremely tear-resistant, water-repellent, and easy to care for. Thanks to its natural structure, it floats on water and requires no additional sealing.

Benefits at a Glance:

• Sustainable and vegan
• Abrasion- and scratch-resistant
• Water-repellent
• Tear- and heat-resistant
• Lightweight and easy to care for
• Versatile for sewing and crafting
• Wide range of colors and designs available

Premium Grade A cork is especially flexible, soft, and robust, making it a standout material rivaling traditional leather.

Cork vs. Leather: A Comparison

In many areas — especially for accessories and bags — cork has already replaced leather. It stands out for its sustainability and ease of care. However, genuine leather still offers advantages in terms of moldability and edge finishing, which can sometimes be more challenging with cork fabric.

Working with Cork Fabric

Cork leather can be easily cut with a rotary cutter or scissors. It’s perfect for raw-edge applications because it doesn’t fray.

Sewing with Cork Fabric

Cork fabric can be sewn with any standard sewing machine:

• Recommended needles: Size 80–90, leather or jeans needles
• Use a Normal or Teflon foot
• Avoid pins; use clips or fabric tape
• Choose a slightly longer stitch length

How to Sew Cork Fabric

You can use a regular presser foot and 80/90 needle to sew cork fabric. It is relatively thin and light, making it easy to work with. You can sew right sides together or wrong sides together and even turn pieces without worrying about fraying.

Be mindful: if you need to unpick stitches, the needle holes will remain visible — just like with faux leather or real leather.

Caring for Cork Fabric

Maintaining cork fabric is simple:

• Clean surfaces with water or mild soap
• Ironing is possible with a cloth barrier due to its excellent heat resistance

Applications for Cork Fabric

Perfect for creating:

• Bags, backpacks, wallets
• Phone, tablet, and laptop sleeves
• Home accessories like cushions and organizers
• Jewelry, keychains, and other creative DIY projects

Conclusion

Cork fabric is a fascinating and sustainable alternative to traditional leather — durable, lightweight, and beautifully versatile. Its unique properties make it perfect for sewing bags, accessories, and countless DIY creations. If you value eco-friendliness, durability, and a natural look and feel, cork fabric is a material that will inspire you again and again.