If you’ve ever come across a pattern that calls for fusible or iron-on interfacing and wondered what on earth it is, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
Fusible interfacing is a secret weapon for giving your fabric structure, stability, and even a bit of strength. In this blog post, I’ll take you through the different types of fusible interfacing and where you might want to use them in your quilting and sewing projects.
What Is Fusible Interfacing?
Fusible interfacing, also known as iron-on interfacing, is a non-woven, fabric-like synthetic material with glue on one side that bonds to your fabric when heat is applied. It’s a game-changer for projects that need a bit more structure, like bags, fabric pots, T-Shirt quilts, or collars and cuffs. Without it, your fabric can be floppy and lack the firmness needed for certain projects.
Types of Fusible Interfacing
There are four main weights of fusible interfacing, each with its own use:
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Lightweight: Great for adding a bit of body without making your fabric too stiff. Ideal for t-shirt quilts as well as collars, cuffs, and the front button-hole sections on shirts in dressmaking. For Vlieseline (pronounced "Vlee-zer-leen"), you're looking for code H180.
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Medium Weight: This is your go-to for most bag-making projects. It adds structure without making your fabric too rigid. Perfect for general crafts, messenger bags or tote bags, as well as waistbands, that need a bit of shape but still remain flexible. Your Vleiseline code is F220.
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Firm: Need serious structure and your fabric project to stand up? Heavyweight interfacing is ideal for projects like fabric pots or more structured bags. It’s almost like turning your fabric into thin cardboard! Your Vleiseline code for this one is H250.
- Extra Heavyweight: This one is for those really tough jobs, like making a cork bag (ask me how I know!) or reinforcing areas where you’ll attach bag hardware. Also use for pelmets in curtain making. It adds strength and durability to your project. The Vleiseline code is S520.
How to Choose the Right Interfacing
Choosing the right fusible interfacing depends on the goal of your project. If you need your fabric to stand up on its own or hold a shape, then interfacing is a must. You can even combine it with wadding or batting for added texture and thickness. Remember, wadding on its own doesn’t provide structure, only padding, so if some kind of structure is what you’re after, always start with interfacing.
Conclusion
Fusible interfacing is an essential tool in any quilter’s and sewer's toolkit, especially if you’re looking to add structure and durability to your projects. Whether you’re working on bags, fabric pots, or even clothing, understanding the different types of interfacing and how to use them will take your sewing to the next level.
I do hope this has helped,
See you next time!
Kim.