Using Fusible Interfacing

Using fusible interfacing can make raw edge applique easier and help make your end project look more professional. ZJ Humbach talks about some of the different kinds of fusible interfacing and shows you how to use them.

Fusible Interfacing

ZJ first talks about some of the different kinds of fusible interfacing, also referred to a fusible web, and shows her preferred brand and type to use. She explains that one of the reasons she prefers this type of fusible web is because it is pressure sensitive which makes it repositionable. When using fusible interfacing for applique it is important that you have your fabric positioned where you want it before you fuse it in place, so having a repositionable fusible web helps with this step.

ZJ then explains the basics of how to use fusible web and adhesives. She shows the fusible web and explains that there is an adhesive side and a paper side. The paper side is where an applique design or shape can be drawn or traced. Because fusible web is applied to the wrong side of the fabric, ZJ explains that the design being used either needs to be reversible (one that looks the same from the right or wrong side) or you will need to reverse your design prior to tracing it onto the fusible web. She then shows how to fuse it to the wrong side of the applique shape, remove the paper backing and then position the shape where desired.

Once positioned the shape can be permanently fused in place. When using fusible interfacing, it is important to know whether your interfacing is single or double sided. Double sided fusible interfacing is used as an adhesive while single sided fusible interfacing is used to stiffen fabric. ZJ also shares how to use fusible interfacing to make patterns last longer.