Introduction
Interlining is a material used in clothes to make them feel stiffer and more structured. It’s glued to the fabric using heat, pressure, and adhesive. This process helps the fabric hold its shape and look neat. But sometimes, interlining can bubble up after it’s bonded, which can ruin the look of the garment.
Bubbling happens when air gets trapped between the interlining and the fabric. This can be caused by too much or too little heat, uneven pressure, or too much moisture. The adhesive might also be applied unevenly, causing the bubbles.
For garment manufacturers, it’s important to know why bubbling happens so it can be avoided. In this blog, we will explain what causes interlining to bubble and give simple solutions. By adjusting how the interlining is bonded and using the right materials, manufacturers can fix or prevent this problem. This will help keep clothes smooth and look professional.
What Is Interlining and Why Is It Used?
Interlining is a material used in clothing to add extra structure and support. It is placed between the fabric layers to make garments feel firmer and more durable. Interlining helps maintain the shape of a piece of clothing, giving it a clean and polished look. It is commonly used in parts like collars, cuffs, waistbands, and coat linings.
Types of Interlining
There are two main types of interlining: fusible and non-fusible. Fusible interlining has an adhesive on one side. When heat is applied, the adhesive bonds to the fabric. Non-fusible interlining, on the other hand, does not have an adhesive and requires stitching to hold it in place.
Why Is Interlining Used?
Interlining is essential for creating high-quality garments. It adds body to soft fabrics like cotton or wool, which helps garments maintain their shape. It also provides extra support to areas that need it, like collars or lapels. Without interlining, clothes may feel flimsy or lose their shape quickly.
Importance for Garment Manufacturers
In garment manufacturing, choosing the right interlining is crucial. The type of fabric, the desired stiffness, and the garment’s purpose all affect the choice of interlining. The correct interlining ensures the garment looks and feels the way it’s meant to. It helps in giving clothes a more professional, well-made appearance.
How Does the Bonding Process Work?
The bonding process is how interlining is attached to the fabric. It involves heat, pressure, and adhesive to create a strong bond between the two materials. This process is commonly used in garment manufacturing to add structure and stability to clothing.
Step 1: Applying Heat
Heat is the first key factor in the bonding process. When heat is applied to the fusible interlining, it activates the adhesive on its surface. This makes the adhesive sticky, allowing it to bond to the fabric.
Step 2: Applying Pressure
Once heat is applied, pressure is used to press the interlining and fabric together. This helps ensure a uniform and strong bond. The pressure also helps eliminate air pockets and wrinkles between the interlining and fabric, creating a smooth, even surface.
Step 3: Cooling and Setting
After the heat and pressure are applied, the fabric and interlining need to cool down. As the materials cool, the adhesive hardens and firmly holds the interlining in place. This ensures that the interlining stays attached and that the garment maintains its structure.
Importance of Proper Bonding
Proper bonding is crucial for garment manufacturers. If the heat, pressure, or adhesive is not applied correctly, the bond may not hold. This can lead to bubbling, peeling, or other issues in the final garment. Therefore, it is essential to control the bonding process carefully to achieve the best results.
What Causes the Interlining to Bubble After Bonding?
Bubbling in interlining occurs when air pockets form between the fabric and the interlining after bonding. This problem can affect the quality and appearance of the garment. Several factors contribute to this issue.
Incorrect Heat Settings
If the heat is too high or too low during the bonding process, it can cause the adhesive to react poorly. Too much heat can cause the adhesive to melt unevenly, while too little heat can prevent the adhesive from bonding properly. Both situations can result in air bubbles.
Uneven Pressure
Pressure must be evenly applied to the fabric and interlining. If the pressure is too light in certain areas, it can leave air pockets that later turn into bubbles. Uneven pressure can also cause wrinkles or creases in the bonded layers.
Excess Moisture
Moisture in the fabric or interlining can cause problems during bonding. If the fabric or interlining is damp, the heat can turn the moisture into steam. This steam can create air bubbles under the interlining, leading to a poor bond.
Too Much Adhesive
Using too much adhesive can also cause bubbling. When the adhesive is applied too thickly, it may not spread evenly, leading to uneven bonding and air pockets. Sometimes, the peel strength after the bonding does not meet the requirements. This results in interlining bubbling.
Rapid Cooling
Cooling the fabric too quickly can cause the adhesive to shrink unevenly, which may also result in bubbling. A controlled, gradual cooling process is essential for a smooth finish.
How Can Bubbling in Interlining Be Prevented?
Bubbling in interlining can be avoided with careful attention to the bonding process. By making small adjustments, garment manufacturers can prevent this issue and ensure a smooth, professional finish.
Control the Heat
The correct heat setting is crucial. Ensure the temperature is high enough to activate the adhesive but not too high to melt it unevenly. Always follow the recommended temperature for the type of interlining being used.
Apply Even Pressure
Pressure should be evenly distributed across the fabric and interlining. Using a press or bonding machine with consistent pressure helps avoid air pockets. Make sure the pressure is sufficient but not too heavy, as that can damage the fabric.
Check for Moisture
Before bonding, ensure that both the fabric and interlining are dry. Any moisture can turn to steam when heat is applied, causing bubbles. If necessary, pre-dry the materials to remove any moisture content before starting the bonding process.
Use the Right Amount of Adhesive
Use the right amount of adhesive for the fabric and interlining. Too much adhesive can cause it to spread unevenly, leading to bubbles. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for adhesive application.
Gradual Cooling
After bonding, allow the fabric and interlining to cool slowly. Rapid cooling can cause the adhesive to shrink unevenly, leading to bubbling. Control the cooling process to ensure a smooth, well-bonded result.
What Are Some Troubleshooting Tips for Bubbling Issues?
Check Heat Settings
- Ensure the heat is not too high. Too much heat can cause uneven melting of the adhesive.
- Adjust the temperature to the recommended level for the type of interlining.
Ensure Even Pressure
- Apply uniform pressure across the entire fabric and interlining.
- Check the pressure settings to ensure no areas are under-pressed, which can lead to air pockets and bubbles.
Dry the Fabric and Interlining
- Moisture in the fabric or interlining can create steam, causing bubbles.
- Make sure the fabric and interlining are completely dry before starting the bonding process.
Adjust Adhesive Application
- Apply the right amount of adhesive. Too much can cause uneven spreading and bubbling.
- Ensure the adhesive is applied evenly for a smooth bond.
Control Cooling Time
- Avoid rapid cooling after bonding. Fast cooling can cause the adhesive to shrink unevenly.
- Allow the bonded fabric and interlining to cool gradually for a smooth, strong bond.
Are There Alternative Methods to Avoid Bubbling in Interlining?
Bubbling in interlining can be avoided by using different methods that improve the bonding process. Here are some alternatives to consider for garment manufacturers.
Use Non-Fusible Interlining
One way to avoid bubbling is by using non-fusible interlining. This type does not require adhesive, which eliminates the chance of bubbling caused by improper adhesive application. Instead, non-fusible interlining is held in place by stitching, providing a stable bond without the risk of air pockets.
Spray Adhesive
Instead of using fusible interlining, spray adhesive can be applied directly to the fabric. This method allows for better control of adhesive placement, ensuring a more even spread and reducing the likelihood of bubbles. It also avoids the heat bonding process, which is often where bubbling occurs.
Ultrasonic Bonding
Ultrasonic bonding uses sound waves to bond fabric and interlining without the need for heat or adhesive. This method can be especially useful for fabrics that are sensitive to heat. It eliminates the chance of bubbling from overheating or uneven heat distribution.
Heat-Activated Films
Another alternative is using heat-activated bonding films. These films are applied to the fabric and interlining and then activated with heat. The film melts and bonds the two materials together, reducing the risk of bubbles caused by excessive adhesive or uneven heat.
Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive Films
Pressure-sensitive adhesive films can be applied without heat. These films bond the fabric and interlining when pressure is applied. This method avoids the risks associated with heat and moisture, ensuring a smooth finish without bubbling.
Conclusion
Bubbling in interlining happens due to wrong heat, pressure, too much adhesive, moisture, or quick cooling. Understanding these causes helps prevent bubbling. To avoid it, use the right heat, apply even pressure, and use the correct amount of adhesive. You can also try alternatives like non-fusible interlining, spray adhesive, or ultrasonic bonding. By following these steps, manufacturers can avoid bubbling and improve garment quality. This ensures a smooth, professional finish without any bubbling issues.
FAQs
Can I Fix Bubbling After Bonding?
Bubbling can be fixed by carefully adjusting heat, pressure, and adhesive application or re-bonding.
Is Bubbling Common In All Types Of Interlining?
Bubbling is more common in fusible interlining but can occur in non-fusible if improperly applied.
How Can I Test Bonding Conditions Before Applying To A Full Batch?
Test bonding on small fabric samples to check heat, pressure, and adhesive settings for consistency.
Contact Us today to purchase customized interlining for your business.
