Introduction
Interlining is a key part of making clothes. It helps clothes look better and last longer. This guide will show you how to use interlining the right way.
First, we’ll discuss the two main types: fusible and sew-in. Fusible interlining sticks to the fabric with heat, while sew-in interlining needs to be sewn onto the fabric. Each type has its uses and benefits.
Next, we’ll explain how to pick the right interlining for your fabric and the type of clothing you’re making. Choosing the right one helps your clothes keep their shape and last longer.
Finally, we’ll give you easy steps for interlining your clothes. By following these steps, you can avoid mistakes and make your clothes look professional and polished.
What Are the Types of Interlining?
There are different types of interlining used in garments and home decor. Each type serves a specific purpose and offers unique benefits. Here are the main types:
Fusible Interlining
Fusible interlining has an adhesive on one side. You can attach it to fabric using heat and pressure, usually with an iron. It’s quick and easy to use. Fusible interlining is great for giving fabric extra stiffness and stability.
Sew-in Interlining
Sew-in interlining doesn’t have adhesive. You sew it into the garment. It’s ideal for delicate fabrics that can’t handle the heat from an iron and provides a softer, more flexible finish.
Woven Interlining
Woven interlining is made from woven fibres. It’s strong and durable, perfect for structured garments like jackets and coats. It helps maintain the shape and adds strength to the fabric.
Non-woven Interlining
Non-woven interlining is made from bonded fibres. It’s easy to cut and doesn’t fray. This type is useful for lightweight garments and crafts. It adds stability without making the fabric too stiff.
Knit Interlining
Knit interlining is made from knit fibres. It’s stretchy and flexible, best for knit fabrics and stretchable garments. It provides support while allowing the fabric to move freely.
How Do You Choose the Right Interlining?
Choosing the right interlining is important for achieving the desired look and feel of your garment. Here’s how to make the best choice:
Consider the Fabric
Match the interlining to your fabric type. For light fabrics like silk or cotton, use a lightweight interlining. For heavy fabrics like wool, use a thicker interlining. This ensures the fabric keeps its shape without becoming too stiff.
Think About the Garment’s Purpose
Decide what you need the interlining to do. Firm interlinings are used for a structured look in jackets, while softer interlinings are used for a soft, flowing dress.
Check Fabric Compatibility
Make sure the interlining works with your fabric. Test a small piece first. If using fusible interlining, ensure the fabric can handle the heat from the iron.
Choose Between Fusible and Sew-in
Fusible interlining is quick and easy to apply with an iron. Sew-in interlining is better for delicate fabrics that can’t take heat.
Consider Flexibility and Stretch
For stretchy fabrics, use knit interlining. For non-stretch fabrics, woven or non-woven interlining works well. It provides support without restricting movement.
Test Before Committing
Always test interlining on a fabric swatch before applying it to the whole garment. This helps avoid surprises and ensures the best results.
What Tools and Materials Are Needed?
To use interlining effectively, you need the right tools and materials. Here’s a simple guide to what you’ll need:
Basic Sewing Tools
- Scissors: Sharp scissors are essential for cutting both fabric and interlining precisely.
- Needles: Have a variety of needles for hand sewing and machine sewing. Choose the right needle for your fabric type.
- Pins: Use pins to hold the interlining and fabric together before sewing.
Sewing Machine and Iron
- Sewing Machine: A reliable sewing machine is important for sewing in interlining. Make sure it’s suitable for the type of fabric you’re using.
- Iron: An iron is necessary for fusible interlining. It applies heat and pressure to bond the interlining to the fabric.
Additional Supplies
- Interlining Material: Choose the right type of interlining (fusible, sew-in, woven, non-woven, or knit) based on your fabric and project needs.
- Fabric for Garment: Have your main fabric ready. Make sure it’s pre-washed and ironed.
- Pattern and Interfacing Templates: Use a pattern for your garment. Templates help in cutting the interlining and fabric accurately.
Cutting and Measuring Tools
- Measuring Tape: Use a measuring tape to ensure precise measurements.
- Rotary Cutter and Mat: These tools make cutting fabric and interlining easier and more accurate.
Optional Tools
- Press Cloth: A press cloth protects delicate fabrics when using an iron.
- Tailor’s Chalk or Fabric Marker: These are used to mark fabric and interline.
Preparation
- Pre-wash Fabric and Interlining: Pre-washing helps prevent shrinkage later.
- Ironing: Iron both fabric and interlining before cutting to remove any wrinkles.
How Do You Apply Interlining Step-By-Step?
Applying interlining is a simple process that enhances your garment. Follow these step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Materials
- Pre-wash and Iron: Pre-wash your fabric and interlining to prevent shrinkage. Iron them to remove wrinkles.
- Cut the Interlining: Cut the interlining to match the pattern pieces of your fabric.
Step 2: Position the Interlining
- Lay Out the Fabric: Place your fabric on a flat surface.
- Align the Interlining: Lay the interlining on the fabric, ensuring it fits perfectly.
Step 3: Attach Fusible Interlining
- Heat the Iron: Set your iron to the correct temperature for your interlining and fabric.
- Fuse the Interlining: Place a press cloth over the interlining to protect the fabric. Press the iron down firmly, holding it for a few seconds. Move the iron to cover all areas until the interlining is fully fused.
Step 4: Attach Sew-in Interlining
- Pin the Interlining: Pin the interlining to the fabric to hold it in place.
- Baste or Sew: Use a sewing machine or hand stitch to sew the interlining to the fabric along the edges.
Step 5: Finish the Garment
Sew as Usual: Once the interlining is attached, proceed with constructing your garment as usual.
What Tips Ensure Successful Interlining?
Test First
Always test the interlining on a small piece of fabric. This helps you see how it affects the fabric and make any adjustments before working on the entire garment.
Choose the Right Interlining
To ensure compatibility and proper support, use lightweight interlining for light fabrics and heavy interlining for heavy fabrics. If using fusible interlining, make sure your fabric can handle the heat. Delicate fabrics may need sew-in interlining instead.
Proper Application
Make sure both the fabric and interlining are wrinkle-free before application. Iron them if needed to avoid wrinkles. Protect your fabric with a press cloth when using an iron to apply fusible interlining to prevent scorching.
Maintain Shape
While attaching interlining, handle the fabric carefully to avoid stretching. This helps maintain the garment’s shape. Ensure the interlining aligns perfectly with the fabric pieces to avoid lumps or unevenness.
Care Instructions
Pay attention to the care instructions for both the fabric and interlining. Following these instructions ensures the longevity and maintains the quality of your garment.
What Are Common Mistakes and How Can You Avoid Them?
Choosing the Wrong Interlining
One common mistake is choosing the wrong type of interlining for your fabric. Using a heavy interlining on a light fabric can make the garment too stiff. Similarly, using lightweight interlining on heavy fabric won’t provide enough support. To avoid this, match the interlining weight to your fabric type.
Improper Application
Another mistake is not applying fusible interlining correctly. Using too much heat can scorch the fabric, while too little won’t bond the interlining properly. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for heat settings and pressing time. Use a press cloth to protect your fabric.
Ignoring Fabric Compatibility
Some fabrics can’t handle the heat needed for fusible interlining, and applying fusible interlining to such fabrics can cause damage. In these cases, use sew-in interlining instead. Test a small fabric piece to check compatibility before applying interlining to the entire garment.
Not Pre-washing Materials
Skipping the pre-washing step can lead to shrinkage after the garment is finished. This can distort the garment’s shape and fit. Always pre-wash both your fabric and interlining to prevent this issue.
Inaccurate Cutting
Cutting interlining inaccurately can lead to uneven or bulky areas in the garment. Ensure you cut interlining pieces precisely to match your pattern pieces.
What Are Advanced Techniques and Considerations?
Special Methods
Mixing Different Interlinings
This means using different types of interlinings in various parts of a piece of clothing. For example, you might use a stiff one in the collar and a soft one in the body.
Customizing Interlining Shapes
Tailors often cut interlining into specific shapes for different parts of clothes, like cuffs and collars, to ensure the right shape and support.
Layering Interlinings
Adding layers of interlining can make clothes even stronger. For instance, putting a light one with a heavier one adds more strength, which is great for heavy coats or suits.
Important Considerations
Quilting and Embroidery
Interlining can be used in quilting and embroidery to make fabrics stronger and hold stitches better.
Professional Tips
Professionals use tools like a clapper to press seams after putting interlining to make them look neat. They also work on a flat surface to avoid mistakes.
Flexible Fabric
When using stretchy interlining with stretchy fabrics, it’s important to keep them flexible for comfort.
Conclusion
Interlining is like an extra layer that makes clothes and home stuff stronger and better. It helps clothes stay in good shape and keeps them warm and safe. Whether it’s making clothes or decorating a house, interlining is super helpful. It’s like adding a secret ingredient to make everything last longer and look nicer.
Understanding why interlining is important helps people pick the right materials and make better clothes and home decorations. So, whether it’s a warm winter coat or fancy curtains, interlining is a key part of making things that stay nice for a long time.
FAQs
What Is the Purpose of Interlining?
Strengthens fabric, improves garment structure, adds warmth or protection, enhances durability, and aids in draping.
When to Use Interlining?
When making tailored garments, home decor items, quilts, or embroidery projects.
How to Use an Interliner?
Cut to match pattern pieces, attach between fabric layers, and press with heat for fusible types.
