Bonded Fusible Interfacing: What you need to know
When it comes to elevating your sewing projects, the right tools and techniques can make all the difference. One such tool that deserves a place in every sewer's toolkit is bonded fusible interfacing. This versatile material can transform the way your fabrics behave, ensuring a polished finish and professional-looking results. In this post, we'll delve into what bonded fusible interfacing is, its benefits, and provide you with some essential tips on how to use it effectively.
What is Bonded Fusible Interfacing?
Bonded fusible interfacing is a fabric-like material that adds structure, stability, and shape to a wide variety of fabrics. It features an adhesive backing that activates with heat, allowing it to bond to your fabric. Unlike knit interfacing, which is used for stretchy fabrics, bonded fusible interfacing is ideal for woven fabrics and projects where you need more rigidity and support, such as collars, cuffs, and bags.
Key Benefits of Bonded Fusible Interfacing:
Increased Structure: One of the primary advantages of bonded fusible interfacing is its ability to give fabrics a crisp, defined shape. It helps prevent fabrics from sagging or wrinkling, ensuring your projects maintain their form.
Durability: Bonded interfacing reinforces fabric, making it more durable and able to withstand repeated use and wear. This is especially helpful in high-stress areas like buttonholes and waistbands.
Easy Application: Thanks to its fusible nature, bonded interfacing adheres to your fabric using heat, making it quick and easy to apply without the need for additional stitching.
Tips for Using Bonded Fusible Interfacing:
Choosing the Right Type: Bonded fusible interfacing comes in different weights and colours. Make sure to choose one that complements your fabric. Lighter weights work well for delicate fabrics, while heavier weights are better suited for more structured projects like outerwear and accessories.
Preparation: Just as with fabric, it's important to pre-shrink bonded fusible interfacing before use. This will prevent it from shrinking after it's applied, which could warp your fabric. Simply apply heat to pre-shrink the interfacing, or follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Applying the Interfacing: Place the rough, adhesive side of the interfacing against the wrong side of your fabric. Set your iron to the correct heat setting (as recommended for your fabric), then press down firmly, holding the iron in place for a few seconds. Avoid moving the iron around, as this can distort both the fabric and interfacing.
Allow Time to Cool: After applying the interfacing, let the fabric cool down before handling it. This will help ensure a strong bond between the interfacing and the fabric. Gently test a corner to make sure it’s fully adhered.
Testing First: Always test the interfacing on a scrap piece of your fabric to ensure the weight and adhesion are suitable for your project. This can help you avoid any surprises when working on your final piece.
Conclusion
With the right knowledge and techniques, bonded fusible interfacing can be a game-changer in your sewing projects. Its ability to add structure and durability while being easy to apply makes it an essential tool for a wide range of sewing applications. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to achieving professional-looking results with confidence. Happy sewing!