Dear Netfah,
I was interested in making a rain coat for my four year old girl, but was not sure what kind of material I should be purchasing. I would like it to be kind of see through like the rain capes from my own childhood. I saw some vinyl online, but it looked too heavy. Any suggestions?
-Rain Rain Go Away, Ellicott City MD
Dear Rain Rain in Maryland,
I used to have one with ducks on it when I was a little girl. I even had an umbrella to match. Now that I am an adult, I wish they made them for my size because they protected so well.
The kind of material that is best suited for the style of rainwear you are looking to create is a lightweight clear plastic vinyl. It is the material most often seen and affiliated with table coverings and tote bags. Well, it is a great water protectant and wipes clean for easy care.
Clear vinyl comes in varying thicknesses called gauges that range from 10-30. A 10 gauge vinyl is the thinnest and therefor lightest of the weights. Suitable for a range of uses, 10 gauge vinyl is good for cosmetic purses, storm windows, and some garments. The thicker 30 gauge vinyl is harder to sew through and is used primarily for seat covers and greenhouses.
As always, it is best to get samples before ordering any yardage if you want to be sure the material you are purchasing is suited for the project at hand.
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Netfha
I am hoping you may have a few referrals for manufacturers who will work with me and my patent design I have for a children’s handbag. I would like to discuss with potential manufacturers the idea of using the material used for raincoats and the many designs. I appreciate any referral, advice, help, or direction possible. Many years ago this project was halted due to 9-11 and our product being grounded in China. It was a different material and much too costly to manufacturer here. Many years later I think I may have a different idea with it. My dream is to be able to produce it here in the US. Hope you can help. Thank you
Greetings Jen,
As much as I would love to be able to furnish you with a manufacturer who can assist you in manifesting your creative goods, I am more familiar with mills that create raw textiles (fabric). If you are still considering overseas manufacturing, http://www.Alibaba.com is a global trade site and a pretty decent place to start. If you’re looking local, start with an online apparel manufacture directory. Don’t rule out hiring a freelance contractor either. This will give you an opportunity to produce in smaller volume and get feedback on your product before going into the deepend. Good luck!