How to use interfacing?
In this new tutorial, let’s talk about a key step of your sewing project: interfacing.
For the English version, remember to activate the English subtitles.
The Different Types of Interfacing
There are two main families of interfacing: fusible, which is applied with the heat of an iron, and non-fusible.
For fusible interfacing, it’s important to differentiate between:
- Woven: These function like fabric, with warp and weft threads that intersect. They will follow the movement of the piece, giving it structure while allowing it to follow natural folds.
- Knitted: Perfect for knit fabrics, such as jersey, as they preserve all the elastic qualities of the material.
- Non-woven: Made of bonded fibers, they tend to stiffen the fabric and are therefore not recommended for garments but are suitable for accessory projects that do not require movement.
- Fleece: Very useful for adding thickness, softness, and structure to a project, and ideal for all quilting operations.
- Double-sided: Used for making transfers and creating patches.
There are also non-fusible interfacings, which are sewn in place, often used for materials that are sensitive to the heat of an iron. It is worth noting that it is not always necessary to use interfacing per se: a "triple layer" (a layer of fabric such as poplin or percale) can also be suitable.
Some General Tips for Interfacing
To ensure your interfacing is successful, here are a few tips to know:
- First of all, I recommend choosing interfacing that is thinner than the main fabric to preserve its flexibility.
- Be sure to place your pieces on the grainline of the interfacing, just as you would with your main fabric.
- Unless otherwise indicated by the pattern, feel free to cut your interfacing with a margin all around. This way, even if the interfacing shifts slightly during ironing, your fabric piece will still be well-covered.
- Finally, make sure to iron the piece to be fused before interfacing it, so that it is perfectly ready.
How to Fuse Interfacing
First of all, always remember to protect your ironing board and iron by working between two layers of parchment paper, for example.
To start, place your fabric piece with the wrong side facing up, then place the interfacing with the adhesive side against the fabric. Finally, press your iron for a few seconds (be sure to turn off the steam!), then lift and reposition it without sliding (which could shift the interfacing), until the entire surface has been covered. Let the piece cool completely before handling it. It’s very simple in the end!
Happy sewing! And see you soon at Ikatee.