What Is Fusible Interfacing? Uses, How To Fuse and More
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If you're looking for a way to make your fabric stiffer or stronger, fusible interfacing is just what you need. This convenient sewing notion makes it easy to reinforce materials without extra sewing—you'll just need an iron to make it stick! Read on to learn more about fusible interfacing, including what it is, how it's used and more. Looking for fusible interfacing for your next project? Shop fusible interfacing and more stabilizers and interfacings at WAWAK.
WHAT IS FUSIBLE INTERFACING?
In sewing, interfacing is a material that's added to the back of a fabric to reinforce it. If you have a fabric you'd like to be a bit more structured or a garment area that requires more strength, backing it with interfacing can help create the durability or shape you're looking for. So what about the "fusible" part? Fusible interfacing features a heat-activated adhesive on one side of the material. This means it can be easily attached (fused) to your fabric by simply ironing it in place—no sewing required!
Like sewing fabrics, interfacings come in a variety of weaves, weights and textures. From plush fusible fleece to ultra-firm stabilizers, there's an interfacing for nearly every fabric and project type. For more details on interfacing types and how to choose one for your project, see our previous post, "Choosing The Right Interfacing For Your Project," including our in-depth Interfacing Selection Chart.
What Is Fusible Interfacing Used For?
So what is fusible interfacing used for, more specifically? Fusible interfacing is used in many sewing disciplines to reinforce, stiffen or add body to fabric. In garment sewing, it's often used to reinforce areas that require strength or stability, such as pockets, collars, cuffs and buttonholes. In bag making, fusible interfacing can be used to make fabrics crisper or more structured so they can hold the bag’s shape. For home decor, it's an excellent option for reinforcing drapery headers, tiebacks and more. Fusible interfacing is also sometimes used to stabilize fabrics for embroidery, helping to prevent the fabric from stretching and warping the design.
Fusible Interfacing Uses
Stabilize necklines and armholes
Add structure to collars, cuffs, lapels and waistbands
Reinforce buttons, buttonholes and plackets
Add structure to bag panels and bottoms
Reinforce drapery headers
Stabilize fabric for embroidery
Because it requires ironing to adhere, fusible interfacing can be a quicker, more convenient option than its alternative, sew-in interfacing. However, this also means it isn't suitable for some fabrics. You'll generally want to avoid using fusible interfacing on delicate, heat-sensitive, napped or highly textured fabrics (like fine silk, velvet, sequined fabrics, faux fur, etc.), as the heat and/or pressure required to fuse the interfacing can damage these types of materials.
How To Use Fusible Interfacing
One of the main advantages of fusible interfacing is that it's easy to use! With just a few simple steps, you can back your fabric in no time. Refer to the package directions of your product for optimal iron temperature settings, techniques and timing to adhere your interfacing.
Place the interfacing adhesive-side down onto the wrong side of your chosen fabric.
Press the interfacing using an iron and pressing cloth. Do not move the iron back and forth; instead, hold the iron in one place for a few seconds, lift it straight up and place it back down, slightly overlapping the spot you just pressed. Repeat until you've pressed the entire surface you want to adhere.
Allow the interfacing and fabric to cool completely before handling.
For more detailed instructions and helpful tips, check out our previous post "How To Use Fusible Interfacing."
FUSIBLE INTERFACING FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is My Fusible Interfacing Not Sticking?
If your fusible interfacing isn't adhering correctly, a few common mistakes could be the cause. One possible mistake is leaving the plastic film on the interfacing—some interfacings come with temporary protective plastic on their adhesive side that needs to be removed before ironing. Another common mistake is handling the interfacing immediately after pressing. Be sure to let your fabric and interfacing cool completely before you handle them. This ensures the adhesive is able to fully solidify and form a strong bond between the materials. When in doubt, check your interfacing's package directions to be sure you're using the right temperature settings and technique for your material.
What's The Best Interfacing For Collars and Cuffs?
WAWAK Fusible Narrow Interfacing Rolls are the perfect size for narrow garment areas like collars and cuffs. Available in several narrow widths and a variety of materials, these are the ideal option for easy cutting and application. For more delicate fabrics, we also offer Sew-In Interfacing Narrow Rolls.
What Kind Of Interfacing Is Best For Bag Making?
The best interfacing for your project depends a lot on how structured you want your finished bag to be. For highly rigid bags or bag bottoms, stiff interfacings like Pellon 526 Decovil Heavy or Pellon 72F Peltex II Fusible Ultra Firm are popular choices. For bags with a more plush feel, fusible fleece adds structure with softness. Pellon SF101 Shape-Flex is a popular choice for less structured bags like tote bags. Explore our collection of the best fusible bag interfacings at WAWAK.
