Introduction
What can you use as interlining in your garments? Interlining is a hidden layer that gives clothes their shape and structure. It makes collars stiff and waistbands firm, adding durability to many clothing parts. Choosing the right interlining is crucial for a good finish. There are various options available. Fusible interlining sticks to fabric with heat.
The sew-in interlining needs to be sewn into place. Speciality options like horsehair, wool, and silk offer unique benefits. Each type has its purpose and works best with certain fabrics. Knowing which to use helps you create high-quality garments. This guide will walk you through the different interlining choices, making picking the best one for your project easier.
What Are the Different Types of Interlining Materials?
Interlining materials are vital in garment construction. They provide support, shape, and structure to clothing parts like collars, cuffs, and waistbands. Knowing the different types of interlining can help you choose the right one for your projects. Here’s a simple guide to the most common types.
Fusible Interlining
Fusible interlining is easy to use. It has a glue layer that sticks to the fabric when heated. This type is great for adding structure to lightweight fabrics. It’s often used in collars, cuffs, and plackets.
Fusible interlining comes in different weights, so you can pick the right one based on the fabric’s thickness. It saves time since you don’t need to sew it in place. But always test it on a scrap of fabric first to ensure it doesn’t change the look of the fabric.
Sew-in Interlining
Sew-in interlining is perfect for delicate fabrics. It doesn’t have glue, so it needs to be sewn in place. This makes it a good choice for fabrics that could be damaged by heat, like silk or velvet. Sew-in interlining gives a softer finish than fusible interlining. It’s versatile and can be used in many parts of a garment. Though it takes more time to apply, it’s a reliable choice for high-quality clothing.
Woven Interlining
Woven interlining is made from woven fibres, just like regular fabric. It offers strong and durable support, making it ideal for tailored garments. Woven interlining can be fusible or sew-in, depending on your need. It’s often used in suits, coats, and jackets where a firm structure is required.
The woven nature of the material helps it move with the fabric, keeping the garment’s shape over time. It’s a top choice for high-end clothing.
Non-Woven Interlining
Non-woven interlining is made from bonded fibres. It’s less expensive and easier to use. Non-woven interlining can be fusible or sewn in. It’s often used in mass-produced clothing because it provides enough support without the cost of woven interlining. However, it may not be as durable or shape-retaining.
Knit Interlining
Knit interlining is made from knitted fibres, making it stretchy and flexible. It’s ideal for knit fabrics like jerseys. Knit interlining keeps the fabric flexible while still adding support. It’s usually fusible, so it’s easy to apply. It’s perfect for garments that need some stretch, like sportswear or casual wear.
Specialty Interlining
Specialty interlinings include horsehair, wool, and silk. These are used for specific needs. Horsehair has a stiff finish, ideal for formal wear like suits. Wool adds warmth, perfect for winter garments. Silk is lightweight and luxurious, great for high-end fashion. These are more expensive but offer special benefits.
How Do You Choose the Right Interlining for Your Project?
Choosing the right interlining for your garment project is crucial. The interlining you select can affect the final product’s look, feel, and durability. Here’s a simple guide to help you make the best choice.
Understand Your Fabric
The first step in choosing the right interlining is understanding the fabric you use. Different fabrics have different needs. Lightweight fabrics, like silk or chiffon, require a lighter interlining that won’t weigh them down. Heavier fabrics, like wool or denim, need a stronger interlining to add structure.
Always match the interlining weight to the fabric weight. A good rule is choosing an interlining slightly lighter than your fabric. This ensures the fabric’s natural drape is maintained.
Consider the Garment’s Purpose
Think about what the garment will be used for. Is it a formal piece like a suit or a casual item like a shirt? Formal garments often need more structure, so a stiffer interlining like woven or horsehair may be required.
Casual garments, on the other hand, might need softer, more flexible interlining like knit or lightweight fusible interlining. The purpose of the garment is to help determine the level of support and structure needed.
Choose Between Fusible and Sew-in Interlining
Decide whether you need fusible or sew-in interlining. Fusible interlining is quicker and easier to apply because it has an adhesive that bonds to the fabric with heat. It’s ideal for projects requiring time or a clean, smooth finish. However, testing fusible interlining on a scrap piece of fabric is important to ensure it doesn’t affect the fabric’s appearance or texture.
Sew-in interlining, on the other hand, doesn’t use adhesive. It’s sewn into the garment, making it a better choice for delicate fabrics that heat might damage. Sew-in interlining also provides a softer, more natural drape.
Match the Interlining to the Garment’s Functionality
Consider how the garment will be worn and cared for. If the garment will be worn often and needs to be durable, choose a more robust interlining like woven or heavy-duty non-woven.
A lighter interlining may be sufficient if the garment is for occasional wear. Also, think about the garment’s care requirements. Some interlinings may not hold up well to frequent washing or dry cleaning. Ensure the interlining you choose is compatible with the garment’s care instructions.
Test Before Committing
Always test your chosen interlining on a small piece of fabric before starting the project. This lets you see how the interlining affects the fabric’s feel, drape, and appearance. It’s better to make adjustments at this stage than to find out later that the interlining doesn’t work well with your fabric.
Can You Use DIY Alternatives as Interlining?
Using DIY alternatives as interlining can be a smart and cost-effective option. Whether you’re trying to save money, recycle materials, or just experiment, there are several ways to create your interlining. Here’s how you can do it.
Fabric Scraps
Fabric scraps are one of the easiest DIY interlining options. Most sewing projects leave behind small pieces of fabric. Instead of throwing them away, you can use them as interlining.
Choose scraps that match the weight and texture of your main fabric. For example, use lightweight cotton scraps for shirts and thicker fabrics like wool for coats. Cut the scraps to the size you need, and layer them if you want extra thickness. This method is budget-friendly and helps reduce waste.
Old Garments
Recycling old clothes is another great way to make interlining. If you have clothes you no longer wear, consider cutting them up for this purpose. Old shirts, dresses, or even bedsheets can be used.
Ensure the fabric is still in good condition without holes or heavy wear. This approach works well for projects where the interlining won’t be seen, allowing you to use fabric that might otherwise go to waste.
Non-Traditional Materials
You can also use non-traditional materials as interlining. Felt is a good choice to add stiffness, especially in bags or hats. Canvas can be used for sturdier projects, like jackets or upholstery. Even household items like old curtains or tablecloths can work. The key is to choose materials that complement your main fabric. For example, felt may not work well with lightweight fabrics but can be great with heavier ones.
Things to Consider with DIY Interlining
When using DIY interlining, keep a few things in mind. First, always test the material on a small piece of your main fabric. This helps you see how it behaves, whether it shrinks or becomes too stiff. Second, think about how you’ll care for the garment.
Some DIY materials might not handle frequent washing or high heat, so make sure they fit your garment’s care needs. Finally, remember that DIY interlining might not be as strong as commercial options. You may need to use extra layers to get the support you want.
Benefits of DIY Interlining
Using DIY alternatives offers many benefits. It saves money by reusing materials you already have. It’s also an eco-friendly choice since it reduces waste. Plus, DIY interlining allows you to experiment with different textures and thicknesses, allowing you to customize your project.
How Do You Care For Garments With Interlining?
Caring for garments with interlining is essential to maintain their shape and durability. Here’s how to do it:
Read the Care Label
- Always start by checking the care label.
- Follow the instructions on washing, drying, and ironing.
- Pay special attention if the garment is machine washable, hand washable, or dry clean only.
Washing Garments with Interlining
Machine Washing
- Use a delicate cycle with cold water.
- Avoid harsh detergents or bleach.
- Place the garment in a mesh laundry bag for extra protection.
Hand Washing
- Fill a basin with cold water and mild detergent.
- Gently agitate and soak the garment for a few minutes.
- Rinse with cold water and press out excess water gently.
- Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric.
Drying Garments with Interlining:
Air Drying
- Lay the garment flat on a clean, dry towel.
- Reshape it to its original form.
- Avoid hanging the garment to prevent stretching.
- Keep the garment out of direct sunlight.
Tumble Drying
- If allowed, use a low seat setting.
- Remove the garment while it’s still slightly damp.
- Lay flat to finish drying to maintain shape.
Ironing Garments with Interlining
- Use a low to medium heat setting based on the fabric type.
- Iron on the wrong side of the fabric to protect the interlining.
- Use a pressing cloth for extra protection.
- Apply steam sparingly to avoid affecting the interlining’s adhesive properties.
Storing Garments with Interlining
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Use padded hangers for jackets or blazers to prevent stretching.
- Fold items carefully along the seams to avoid creasing if they cannot be hung.
Conclusion
Choosing the right interlining is key to making quality garments. The interlining gives structure and support to areas like collars and cuffs. There are several types, like fusible, sew-in, woven, non-woven, and knit interlining. Each one works best with specific fabrics.
You can also use DIY options, like fabric scraps or old clothes. Always match the interlining to your fabric and project needs. Testing it on a small piece of fabric first helps ensure good results. By knowing your options, you can make better choices that improve your garments.
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