How to apply interlining fabric

Hey there, sewing fans! Ever wished your clothes had more shape and support? That's where interlining fabric comes in! It's like a hidden helper that gives your garments a polished, professional look. There are different kinds of interlining, but this guide will help you figure out which one is right for your project and how to use it.

Table of Content

• What is Interlining Fabric?
• Benefits of Using Interlining
• Choosing the Right Interlining
• Sew-in vs. Fusible Interlining
• Applying Sew-in Interlining
• Applying Fusible Interlining
• Conclusion

What is Interlining Fabric?

Imagine an extra piece of fabric tucked inside your clothes. That's basically what interlining is! It goes between the outer fabric (the part you see) and the lining (the soft inside layer). Interlining comes in different thicknesses and materials, depending on what you want it to do for your project.

Here's a quick breakdown of its functionalities:

• Adds Structure: Interlining provides stability and prevents your garment from becoming flimsy or drapey. Think of crisp collars, tailored jackets, and structured bodices – interlining plays a key role in achieving these looks.
• Improves Shape Retention: Fabrics can lose their shape over time. Interlining acts like an internal support system, helping your garment maintain its intended form, wash after wash.
• Enhances Drape: Believe it or not, interlining can actually improve drape! The right interlining can add a beautiful weight and flow to your fabric, creating a more polished silhouette.
• Provides Warmth: Some interlinings offer an additional layer of warmth, making your garment more suitable for cooler weather.

Benefits of Using Interlining

Adding interlining to your project comes with a plethora of benefits. Here are some key advantages to consider:

• Professional Finish: Interlining elevates your garment from a simple creation to a polished piece, giving it a more professional and high-quality look.
• Enhanced Wearability: Interlining can improve the overall comfort and wearability of your garment. It helps the fabric drape more smoothly and prevents bunching or sagging.
• Durability: By adding structure and stability, interlining can help your garment last longer. It can reduce wear and tear, especially in areas prone to stress like collars, pockets, and hems.
• Creative Freedom: Interlining opens doors to a wider range of design possibilities. You can experiment with different weights and types of interlining , like woven fusible interlining or non-woven fusible interlining , to create unique textures, body, and visual effects in your garments.

Choosing the Right Interlining

When it comes to picking out interlining, don't worry, it's not scary! This guide will help you find the perfect match for your project.

• Fabric Weight: Consider the weight of your main fabric. Lighter fabrics like silks or linens might benefit from lightweight interlinings, while heavier fabrics like wool or denim can handle sturdier options.
• Project Type: Different garments require different levels of structure. Jackets and blazers need a strong interlining for a crisp look, while blouses might only need a lightweight interlining for a touch of stability.

• Desired Effect: What are you hoping to achieve with the interlining? Do you want a stiff collar, a smooth drape, or added warmth? Different interlinings offer varying degrees of stiffness and drape.

Material: Interlining comes in various materials, each with its own properties:

• Woven: Offers excellent stability and comes in a range of weights. This is known as woven interlining fabric.
• Non-woven: Often used for heat bonding (fusible interlining or non-woven fusible interlining ), provides a soft drape and medium weight.
• Knit: Offers flexibility and a soft drape, ideal for curved areas.
• Tricot: A lightweight knit interfacing, perfect for sheer fabrics.

Sew-in vs. Fusible Interlining

Now that you've chosen your interlining, it's time to decide on the application method. There are two main ways to attach interlining: sewing it in or using heat to fuse it to your main fabric.

Sew-in Interlining:

• This method involves stitching the interlining fabric to your main fabric by hand or machine.
• It offers more control over placement and is ideal for heavyweight interlinings or when working with delicate fabrics that can't withstand heat.
• However, sewing in interlining can be time-consuming and requires some sewing skills.

Fusible Interlining:

• This method uses heat (iron or heat press) to activate a glue coating on the fusible interlining , bonding it to your main fabric.
• It's a faster and easier application method, perfect for beginners or projects requiring precise placement.
• However, fusible interlining might not be suitable for all fabrics, especially those sensitive to heat.

Applying Sew-in Interlining

Feeling ready to conquer sew-in interlining? Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve a flawless application:

1. Gather your supplies: You'll need your main fabric, interlining fabric (woven or non-woven depending on your choice), fabric shears, sewing machine (optional), needle and thread (matching your main fabric), pins or sewing clips, iron, and a pressing cloth (optional).
2. Pre-wash (optional): Wash and iron your main fabric (and interlining if recommended by the manufacturer) to remove any shrinkage or wrinkles. This ensures your finished garment retains its shape after washing.
3. Cut your interlining: Lay your main fabric piece flat and use it as a template to cut out a piece of interlining with the same shape.
4. Mark the interfacing : If you're working with a complex pattern piece or want extra precision, use a fabric pen or chalk to mark the interfacing to match any darts, notches, or buttonholes on your main fabric.
5. Baste the interlining : This step is especially helpful for beginners or when working with slippery fabrics. Using long, loose basting stitches, temporarily baste the interlining to your main fabric. This helps keep everything aligned during sewing.
6. Sew the interlining: Here, you have two options:
7. Remove basting stitches: Once you've sewn the interlining in place, carefully remove any basting stitches using a seam ripper.

Applying Fusible Interlining

Fusible interlining offers a faster and more convenient application method. Let's explore the steps for using fusible interlining or non-woven fusible interlining :

1. Gather your supplies: You'll need your main fabric, fusible interlining, fabric shears, iron, ironing board, and a pressing cloth (optional).
2. Pre-wash : As with sew-in interlining, pre-washing your main fabric ensures minimal shrinkage after construction.
3. Cut your interlining: Following your main fabric piece as a template, cut out a piece of fusible interlining with the same shape.
4. Set your iron: Refer to the manufacturer's instructions on the fusible interlining for the recommended heat setting. It's always best to start with a lower heat setting and gradually increase if needed.
5. Place the interlining: Lay the fusible interlining onto the wrong side of your main fabric. Ensure everything is smooth and aligned.
6. Fuse the interlining: Following the manufacturer's instructions, carefully press the iron onto the fabric for the recommended time. Apply firm pressure to create a secure bond.

Conclusion

Interlining makes your clothes stronger, keeps them looking good, wash after wash, and can even make them drape better or feel warmer. Try using interlining to make stiff collars, jackets that hold their shape, flowy blouses, or anything else you can dream up. With a little practice, you'll be an interlining expert in no time, turning your clothes from flimsy to fantastic!

Happy sewing!