Mastering Bag-Making Interfacing: Tips and Top Brands
Hello, Snazzie People!
When it comes to bag making, the secret ingredient that often makes the difference between a flimsy, floppy creation and a stylish, sturdy accessory is interfacing. Interfacing, available in various types and weights, is a magical material that adds structure, stability, and finesse to your sewing projects. From giving your bags a professional look to ensuring that the fabric holds its shape, choosing the right interfacing is a crucial step in your creative journey.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the world of bag-making interfacing, exploring different types, their characteristics, and recommendations for brands and products that have earned their place in the sewing community. Whether you’re a seasoned sewist or a budding enthusiast, understanding the interfacing options at your disposal will elevate your bag-making skills to new heights. So, grab your fabric, your sewing machine, and let’s explore the fantastic world of bag-making interfacing together!
Fusible Woven Interfacing
Fusible woven interfacing, crafted from materials like cotton, polyester, or blends, features one side coated with a heat-activated adhesive. It’s prized for adding stability and structure to fabric while preserving a soft, pliable feel. This makes it a popular choice in both bag-making and garment construction.
Recommended Brands and Products:
Bosal
- Fusible Woven Interfacing
Pellon
- Shape Flex (SF101)
Therm-o-Web
- HeatnBond Soft Woven Fusible (2400)
Lightweight Fusible Non-Woven Interfacing
Lightweight fusible non-woven interfacing, constructed from synthetic fibers like polyester or polyester-rayon blends, lacks the grain structure of woven interfacing. It forms a web or mesh of bonded fibers. As with woven interfacing, one side is coated with a heat-activated adhesive. It’s a versatile choice for various sewing applications, from bag making to stabilizing collars and buttonholes in clothing.
Recommended Brands and Products:
Bosal
- Non-woven White Fusible Interfacing (312B)
Pellon
- Featherweight (911FF)
- Shir-Tailor (950F)
- SheerWeight (906F)
Therm-o-Web
- HeatnBond Light Weight Non-Woven (2414)
Mid-weight Fusible Non-Woven Interfacing
Mid-weight interfacing offers versatility in bag making. It provides the ideal balance of structure and stability without becoming overly thick or difficult to sew through. Mid-weight non-woven interfacing comprises a blend of fibers with heat-activated adhesive on one side. Its texture is akin to thick paper, and it holds pleats well.
Recommended Brands and Products:
Pellon
- Decor Bond (809)
Therm-o-web
- HeatnBond Craft Firm Non-Woven Fusible (2438)
Firm Fusible Non-Woven Interfacing
Firm non-woven interfacing is exceptionally stiff and is suitable for various DIY projects, such as coasters and toys. It’s an excellent choice for enhancing the rigidity and support of projects like hat brims and bag bottoms.
Recommended Brands and Products:
Bosal
- Craf-Tex (337F)
Pellon
- Peltex Single Sided Fusible (71F)
- Peltex Double Sided Fusible (72F)
Therm-o-Web
- HeatnBond Craft Extra Firm Non-Woven Fusible (2465)
Foam Interfacing
Foam interfacing is perfect for creating padded bags like laptop bags and tablet cases. It typically comprises an outer and inner layer of fabric with a foam core. It comes in both fusible and sew-in options, with the former featuring a heat-activated adhesive on one side. Adhering foam interfacing can be a bit challenging due to its thickness, so it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. When sewing with it, trim it within the seam allowance to avoid excessive bulk.
Recommended Brands and Products:
Bosal
- Bosal In-R-Form
ByAnnie
- Soft and Stable
Pellon
- Pellon Flex-Foam (FF77 )
Fusible Fleece
Fusible fleece is used in quilting, blanket making, and garment construction when a touch of extra warmth is desired. It provides stability and a thin layer of padding, offering a subtle quilted look without excessive bulk.
Recommended Brands and Products:
Pellon
- Fusible Fleece (987F)
Therm-o-Web
- HeatnBond Fusible Fleece (2425)
Thermal Fleece
Thermal fleece, similar to fusible fleece, regulates temperature and is ideal for thermal lining in projects like hot pads and lunch bags. It combines thermal materials with synthetic fibers, often featuring a metallic side.
Recommended Brands and Products:
Pellon
- Fusible Thermolam (TP971F)
- Insul Fleece Interfacing (975)
Bonus: Fiberglass Drywall Mesh and Plastic Canvas
Fiberglass drywall mesh and plastic canvas are additional ways to add structure to your bags. Fiberglass drywall mesh, found in hardware and home improvement stores, is woven with fiberglass fibers and is slightly sticky on one side. It’s not permanent, so create an “interfacing sandwich” to secure it. Plastic canvas is perfect for reinforcing bag bottoms, and it’s easily fastened between the inner and outer layers of the bag.
As we reach the end of our journey through the realm of bag-making interfacing, we’ve unveiled the key to enhancing your projects, whether they’re stylish totes, trendy backpacks, or elegant accessories. Interfacing, in all its forms, empowers your creations by providing the structure, stability, and character they deserve.
From the soft pliability of fusible woven interfacing to the robust support of firm non-woven options, the choices are as diverse as your creative spirit. With the right interfacing in your toolkit, your bags will stand the test of time, delivering both form and function.
Remember to heed the wisdom of manufacturers’ instructions and the experiences of fellow crafters to ensure your projects reach their full potential. Bag making, like any craft, is an art, and mastering the art of interfacing is a key step in your journey.
So, whether you’re new to the world of bag making or a seasoned pro, may your next project be a delightful fusion of creativity and practicality, all thanks to the wonders of interfacing. Embrace your newfound knowledge, sew with confidence, and let your unique designs shine.
Good luck with your sewing adventures!Kelly
