Interfacing Unraveled: Your Gudie to Fabric's Secret Weapon

As I like to say, interfacing is a lot like Spanx it firms things up for the fabric.  Think of interfacing as your fabric's personal trainer, giving it the strength and posture it needs to strut its stuff. Whether you're crafting a crisp collar or a bag that stands tall, interfacing is the magic behind the scenes. Let’s dive into the different types and find the perfect match for your project.

1. Woven Interfacing: The Fabric’s Doppelgänger

Woven interfacing is like that friend who mirrors your every move. It has a grainline just like your fabric, so when you cut it, make sure the grains align. This type blends seamlessly, maintaining the fabric’s natural drape while adding a touch of firmness. Ideal for light to medium-weight fabrics, it’s your go-to for that “I woke up like this” effortless look.

You may recognize it from projects like the Smitty Snap Towel.  In our shop, we have prepackaged lightweight interfacing called Sew Light, but we also offer it off the bolt. Click here to check out.

2. Non-Woven Interfacing: The Rebel Without a Grain

Non-woven interfacing doesn’t play by the rules—no grainline means you can cut it any which way. Made from bonded fibers, it feels a bit like paper but offers consistent support. Perfect for craft projects or when you need to add some oomph without worrying about drape. Just remember, it’s less forgiving in the stretch department.

If you have ever used Quilter’s Grid it is a non-woven interfacing. It is used by quilters to easily line up small blocks in a project then give structure to sew them together simply.  There is even grid to do Pixel Quilts.  Click here to check out one of our grids.

3. Knit Interfacing: The Stretchy Sidekick

For those fabrics that like to stretch and move, knit interfacing is their best bud. With its built-in elasticity, it provides support without restricting movement. Think t-shirts, jerseys, or any project where flexibility is key. It’s the yoga instructor of interfacings—supportive yet flexible.

Popular T-shirt Quilts need a nice interfacing on the back, while you can use several different types. We recommend SF101 light weight fusible interfacing to give it a firm foundation.

4. Fusible Interfacing: The Hot Stuff

Fusible interfacing comes with a glue-like resin on one side. Apply heat, and voilà—it bonds to your fabric. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for most projects. But be cautious with heat-sensitive fabrics; you don’t want any meltdowns. Always test a small piece first to ensure a happy union.

Our Pre-Packaged Fusible interfacing is called Sew Fluffy - its great for bags, runners and toppers. Click HERE to check it out!

5. Sew-In Interfacing: The Commitment-Phobe

If you’re dealing with delicate fabrics or just prefer a non-committal approach, sew-in interfacing is your match. It doesn’t rely on heat but is stitched into place, offering a softer, more natural drape. Ideal for silks, laces, or any fabric that might throw a tantrum when introduced to an iron.

6. Specialt Stuff

Insulated batting is super special. Its used in hot pads, hot runners, or anything you use to touch hot stuff.  So even if you don't bake...ummm some of us don't bake we burn....you can use this to protect your counter top from a hot pan of chicken tenders, tator tots, or frozen pizza.   Click here to see our Sew Hot packaged interfacing.

Understanding Interfacing by Color: A Shortcut to the Right Choice

Ever stare at interfacing packaging and feel like you need a decoder ring? Good news—there is a system for Pellon! The colors on the labels help you pick the right interfacing for your project. Let’s break it down:

PINK is for Apparel or Fashion Fabrics

Interfacing that is used in clothing to provide structure and support where strengthening is needed.

• Basics – Your beginner-friendly interfacings, perfect for everyday apparel needs.
• Luxury Fusible – A step up, these offer premium quality and more specialized applications for the fashion-conscious sewist.
• Specialty – Tailoring-friendly, stretchy, or uniquely constructed interfacings for specific garment needs.

Yellow is for Crafts & Home Décor

These interfacings are firmer and ideal for craft and home projects.

• Stabilizers – Firmer than apparel interfacings, these add serious structure to crafts and home décor.
• Embroidery – Prevents stretching and distortion while stitching (removed by washing, cutting, or tearing away).
• Mixed Media – Lutradur® is a fun mix of fabric and paper, perfect for printing, painting, and crafting.

GREEN is for Quilting

Pellon® quilting products help quilters achieve chef’s kiss perfection.

• Fleece – Used in crafting and small quilting projects, with some offering fusible adhesive or insulation.
• Batting – Available in multiple fibers and thicknesses, pre-cut or on rolls for quilting projects.
• Quilting Aids – Specialty products designed to help quilters finish high-quality quilts more efficiently.

Orange is for Fusible Webs

These allow you to attach fabric to fabric (or wood/cardboard) without stitching.

• Paper Backed – Comes with a peelable paper layer, making application easier.
• No Backing – Double-sided fusible that bonds everything at once.

Blue is for Embroidery

Used to prevent fabric distortion while embroidering.

• Tear Away – Removes easily after stitching, adding temporary support.
• Cut Away – Provides more permanent support, preventing sagging or stretching.
• Wash Away – Dissolves in water for a clean finish.

 

Choosing the Right Weight: Light, Medium, or Heavy?

Just like Goldilocks, you want your interfacing to be just right. Match the weight of your interfacing to your fabric:

• Lightweight: For sheer or delicate fabrics where subtle support is needed.
• Medium-weight: Suitable for most standard fabrics, offering a balance of support and flexibility.
• Heavyweight: For those projects that need serious structure, like bags or tailored jackets.

 

In Conclusion: Interfacing is Your Fabric’s Best Friend

Whether you’re adding structure to a collar, preventing stretch in a waistband, or giving life to a bag, interfacing is the behind-the-scenes champion. By understanding the different types, weights, and color-coded packaging, you can elevate your sewing projects from homemade to haute couture.

So, next time you're in the fabric store, give a nod to the interfacing aisle—your projects will thank you.

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