This document will help you understand the different types of interfacings available and how to use them. I only discuss the interfacings and stabilizers I have used, so please feel free to keep trying new stabilizers and such as you never know what will work for YOU best until you try things. ✌️
Find this downloadable Interfacing document HERE for free.
What's Inside the Interfacing Guide
The guide covers the most common interfacings used in bag making, including fusible fleece, foam stabilizer (like Soft and Stable and Sew Hippie Foam), woven fusible such as Pellon SF101 and Natalie's Fusible woven, non-woven fusible, and sew-in options. I break down when to use each one, how to apply them, and what to avoid. Keep in mind this doc is based on my experience and you should use it as a guide, but always test for yourself too.
Fusible vs. Sew-In: Which Should You Use?
Fusible interfacing bonds to your fabric with heat — fast and easy, great for structured bags and exterior panels. Sew-in interfacing is stitched in place and is better for delicate fabrics that can't handle an iron, or when you want a softer drape. Both have their place in bag making and I cover both in the guide.
Tips Before You Start
A few things I always tell beginners: if you plan on washing your bag, pre-shrink your interfacing if it's sew-in, use a pressing cloth to protect your iron, and test on a scrap first. The wrong interfacing can make a beautiful fabric stiff and sad — or worse, bubble and peel after washing. The guide will help you avoid those mistakes.
Peace, Love, Sewing,
-Natalie
