Creative Fabric Trends: Waterproof Fabric, Animal Print Fabric & Custom Fabric Printing in the UK

When it comes to fabric selection, three trends are standing out across the UK: waterproof fabric, animal print fabric, and custom fabric printing. Whether you’re an experienced maker or a DIY enthusiast, these options allow you to bring personality, functionality, and originality into your sewing or craft projects.

In this blog, we’ll explore why these fabrics are growing in popularity, what they’re commonly used for, and how fabric printing in the UK is making it easier than ever to bring your creative vision to life.

The Versatility and Practicality of Waterproof Fabric

Waterproof fabric is no longer limited to utility. Today’s waterproof textiles are durable, stylish, and available in a wide array of colours, textures, and prints. These fabrics are designed to repel water while offering breathability and flexibility, making them ideal for a broad range of applications.

Common uses include:

• Outdoor cushions and upholstery

• Raincoats, ponchos, and wet weather gear

• Backpacks, totes, and gym bags

• Tablecloths, aprons, and picnic blankets

• Pet accessories like waterproof dog beds or coats

With the UK’s famously unpredictable weather, waterproof fabric is a top choice for outdoor and lifestyle items that need to stay dry and last long.

Types of waterproof fabric available:

• PU-coated polyester – Lightweight, strong, and great for bags or clothing

• PVC-backed canvas – Ideal for outdoor cushions, table covers, and workwear

• Ripstop nylon – Durable and tear-resistant, often used in tents and gear

• Laminated cotton – A stylish option for aprons and kids’ gear

The benefit? You no longer have to choose between style and function. Many modern waterproof fabrics come in fun prints or can be custom-printed with your own design — perfect for standing out from the crowd.

Animal Print Fabric: A Bold Style Statement

Animal print fabric remains a timeless trend that has evolved far beyond its traditional use in fashion. From leopard to zebra, snake to tiger — or even more whimsical prints featuring pets and wildlife — animal prints offer visual excitement and personality to any project.

Popular uses of animal print fabric include:

• Clothing – From dresses and tops to scarves and accessories

• Home décor – Bold cushion covers, throws, and upholstered chairs

• Children’s wear – Playful prints for shirts, pajamas, or nursery décor

• Crafts – Book bags, soft toys, scrunchies, or themed gift items

Animal print fabric comes in a wide range of materials, such as cotton, fleece, satin, canvas, and jersey. Whether you’re after a wild, exotic feel or a soft, cuddly aesthetic, there’s a print to suit every project and style.

In recent years, many British designers and craft brands have embraced colourful and cartoon-style animal prints — pandas, elephants, foxes, cats, and dogs — adding a playful twist to this enduring trend.

Fabric Printing UK: Bring Your Designs to Life

Want to stand out from mass-produced options? Fabric printing in the UK is your answer. Custom printing allows you to upload your own artwork or choose from a wide library of patterns to print on different fabric bases — including waterproof and cotton materials.

Top benefits of fabric printing in the UK:

• Personalisation – Make your projects truly unique

• Support local – UK-based companies often offer faster shipping and environmentally conscious production

• Flexible quantities – Order small runs for prototypes or larger batches for production

• High-quality results – Many UK printers use eco-friendly, long-lasting inks

Commonly printed fabrics include:

• Cotton twill and poplin

• Jersey and organic cotton

• Canvas and waterproof polyester

• Silk, satin, and lycra blends

UK companies like Contrado, Woven Monkey, and Spoonflower UK make it easy for individuals, small businesses, and brands to print custom designs affordably and efficiently.

From branding fabric with logos to creating limited-edition patterns for your shop, fabric printing gives complete creative control — and it’s now more accessible than ever.

Combine Trends for Unique Creations

Imagine combining these fabric trends: a custom-printed waterproof fabric with an animal print design, for example, could be used to create stylish outdoor gear, children’s accessories, or unique bags that no one else has.

Project ideas include:

• Rain ponchos with cat or leopard prints

• Picnic blankets featuring fun dog illustrations on waterproof backing

• Tote bags made from custom-printed waterproof canvas with your brand or artwork

• Home cushions with animal silhouettes printed on wipeable fabric

With so many base materials and print options available, your design potential is limitless.

Where to Buy

If you’re shopping for waterproof fabric, animal print fabric, or looking to try fabric printing in the UK, here are some recommended places to start:

• Fabric UK – Wide range of waterproof and outdoor fabrics

• Minerva – A large online store offering prints and solids

• Pound Fabrics – Budget-friendly options including PVC and canvas

• Spoonflower UK – Custom and community designs for printing

• Contrado & Woven Monkey – UK-based services for personal fabric printing

Before buying, check fabric specifications, including width, GSM (weight), washing instructions, and waterproof rating — especially if you’re making products for resale.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a fashion designer, home decorator, crafter, or entrepreneur, using the right fabric can elevate your project. Waterproof fabric ensures practicality, animal print fabric adds flair and energy, and fabric printing UK offers unlimited creative freedom.