Sewing dictionary: Nonwovens

What is Interfacing? Your Essential Sewing Partner

Are you a passionate sewer looking to enhance your sewing projects? Then you will love interfacing! Let's dive into the wonderful world of interfacings and discover how they can serve as an invisible helper in your sewing endeavors. Learn what interfacing is, what types are available, and how they can be utilized to elevate your sewing projects to the next level.

What is Interfacing?

Interfacing consists of many individual fibers that are not woven, which is why they are not traditional textiles. The manufacturing methods vary, determining the application possibilities of the interfacing. Often, interfacings are used in padding, laminate insulation, or clothing, where they often remain hidden. However, they can also appear in more obvious forms, such as in cosmetic tissues or diapers. The fibers are often made from synthetics, making the interfacing durable and easy to care for, especially in sewing, where it frequently occurs as fusible interfacings.

Why is Interfacing Needed in Sewing?

Interfacing is the inconspicuous yet vital partner of fabric. It provides stability and support and can also create volume or add warmth. Depending on the thickness and type, its effect varies, but in any case, interfacing is a reliable companion in every sewing project.

Which Interfacings Are Frequently Used in Sewing?

Fusible Interfacing

The term "fusible interfacing" is often used synonymously with brand names like "Vlieseline." This interfacing is ironed onto fabric to strengthen it. Despite various application possibilities on fabrics, leather, bast, wood, and cardboard, its use is straightforward: ironed on with a damp cloth at low temperature, it guarantees adhesion and stability. Ideal for applications, it offers numerous creative possibilities.

A variant is the Vlieseline H250, which is characterized by strength and durability, ideal for bags or belts. It is suitable for light to medium-weight fabrics like cotton.

Fixation of Vlieseline H250:

1. Place the fusible interfacing on the wrong side of the outer fabric.
2. Set the iron to "wool" and press it slowly over the entire interfacing. Repeat the process about five to six times, holding it in each spot for eight seconds.
3. Let the fabric cool flat for about 20 minutes.

Decovil I Light

Decovil I Light is another fusible interfacing. With a leather-like feel, it is particularly wrinkle-resistant and ideal for reinforcing bags and hats. It is washable and keeps your creations shape-stable.

Handling Decovil:

1. Steam the fabrics to prevent later shrinking.
2. Place the coated side of the interfacing on the wrong side of the fabric.
3. Fix the interfacing with a damp cloth and an iron set to "wool." Press it step by step onto the fabric for six seconds.
4. Let the parts cool flat.

Volume Interfacing – Ideal for Patchwork & Quilting

Vlieseline HH650 (Volume Interfacing)

Vlieseline HH650 is especially suitable for double-faced projects. It bonds fabrics on both sides and is suitable for a variety of materials, enabling ideal padding.

Application of Vlieseline HH650:

1. Place the volume interfacing between the fabric layers, making sure no wrinkles form.
2. Iron carefully with an iron set to "wool/cotton" and a damp cloth, holding it for 15 seconds.
3. Stabilizing topstitches can further secure the volume interfacing.

Vlieseline 272 Thermolam (Volume Interfacing)

For warm jackets or quilts, Vlieseline 272 Thermolam is ideal. With good heat retention and breathability, it is well-suited for many fabric types.

Process it by placing it under your fabric and sewing it on. Due to its heat resistance, it is also suitable as an ironing pad.

Soluble Interfacing – For Creative Sewing and Embroidery

With washable Soluvlies, you can let your creativity run free. It serves as a supportive backing for sewing and embroidery and dissolves in cold water. Perfect for fine or transparent fabrics and versatile applications such as lace embroidery or appliqué.

Working with Soluvlies:

1. Place Soluvlies under the fabric.
2. Hoop both in an embroidery frame or embroider only on the interfacing.
3. Simply wash out the Soluvlies after embroidery.

For collages or the pizza technique, use Soluvlies as a base. Lay fabrics or materials on it, secure them with temporary adhesive spray, and sew everything before washing out the Soluvlies.

Lamifix – for Dirt-Resistant Projects

With Lamifix, you give fabrics practical protection. It simplifies cleaning your sewing projects, like placemats or bags, as they can simply be wiped clean. Lamifix is ironed onto the fabric and is ideal for projects that need to stay clean.

Instructions for Using Lamifix:

1. Roughly cut Lamifix and place it shiny side up on the right side of the fabric.
2. Lightly iron it – Iron setting: wool/cotton.
3. Cut precisely.
4. Fix it step by step with a dry cloth and higher temperature.
5. Let cool thoroughly.

Overview of Interfacing Fabrics at VBS

Conclusion

Interfacing fabrics are true all-rounders and give your sewing projects stability, volume, and protection. Whether you want to create quilts, bags, or appliqués, the right interfacing makes the difference. Visit our online shop and discover the variety of interfacing fabrics at VBS. Let your creativity run free and take your sewing creations to the next level!