Sew-In & Iron-On Interfacing

Iron-on (fusible) interfacing has a heat-activated adhesive backing on one side that bonds permanently to the wrong side of your main fabric using a domestic iron. It is quick, easy to apply, and ideal for most woven cottons and dressmaking fabrics. Sew-in interfacing has no adhesive and is basted or stitched into place along the seam lines. Sew-in interfacing is recommended for textured, heat-sensitive, or very delicate fabrics (such as velvet, silk, or vinyl) that could be damaged by the heat or steam of an iron.

A key rule in dressmaking is that your interfacing should generally be slightly lighter than—or equal to—the weight of your main fabric.

• Lightweight Interfacing (e.g., Code 208/211): Ideal for fine cottons, silks, blouses, and lightweight shirts.

• Medium Weight (e.g., Code 118 / Vilene H200): The most versatile choice for shirt collars, cuffs, dress facings, and light jackets.

• Heavy/Firm Weight (e.g., Code 206 / Buckram): Best for structured bag making, hat brims, coat collars, and heavy tailoring.

Wundaweb (and paper-backed webbing like Bondaweb) is a fusible bonding web that melts between two layers of fabric when pressed with a hot iron. It creates a permanent bond without stitching, making it the perfect solution for quick, invisible hems on trousers, skirts, and curtains. It is also extensively used for securing fabric appliques in place before stitching around the edges.

Solufleece (Vilene Code 321) is a temporary water-soluble fabric stabiliser. It provides a firm backing when stitching delicate embroidery, lace, or lightweight fabrics. Once your stitching or embroidery is complete, simply submerge the item in cold or warm water—the Solufleece dissolves completely, leaving behind only your pure thread work with no stiff backing residue remaining.