Mastering the Art of Sewing: A Beginner's Guide to Using Sew In Interfacing

For many sewing enthusiasts, the thought of using interfacing may seem daunting. However, this versatile fabric is an essential tool for creating professional and well-crafted garments. Among the different types of interfacing techniques, sew in interfacing is a popular choice for its durability and ability to support a wide range of fabrics. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of sew in interfacing – from choosing the right type for your project to mastering its application. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced seamstress looking to broaden your knowledge, this guide will provide you with all the necessary tips and tricks on how to use sew in interfacing effectively. So grab your needle and thread, and let’s get started!

What is Sew-In Interfacing?

Sew-in interfacing is an important tool in the world of sewing. It is a layer of material that is placed between the fabric and lining of a garment to provide support, structure, and stability. Interfacing can be made from a variety of materials such as cotton, polyester, or even fusible adhesive. It comes in different weights or thicknesses depending on the level of support needed for the fabric.

Interfacing also adds extra weight to fabrics such as lightweight silks or jerseys, giving them more body and making them easier to work with. It can prevent fabrics from stretching while being worked on, making it essential for projects such as button-down shirts or jackets.

Types of Sew-In Interfacing

There are several types of sew-in interfacing available in the market. The most common ones include woven interfacing, non-woven interfacing, knit interfacing, and sheer interfacing.

Woven interfacing is made from woven fibers and is known for its durability. It provides excellent structure to garments such as jackets and coats without causing stiffness. Non-woven interfacing is made from pressed fibers and does not have any grainline like woven interfacing. This type of interfacing offers more flexibility to the fabric while providing decent structure.

Knit interfacing is made from knit fibers and has stretch properties which make it ideal for use with stretchy fabrics. They are commonly used in knitwear such as t-shirts or activewear. Sheer interfacing, also known as organza, has a translucent appearance and adds minimal support while still keeping the fabric’s drape intact. It is often used in delicate fabrics such as chiffon or lace.

How To Choose The Right Interfacing?

Choosing the right sew-in interfacing depends on factors like fabric type, project requirements, and personal preference. To determine the appropriate interfacing for your project, consider the weight and stretch of your fabric. Heavier fabrics require a sturdier interfacing, while lighter ones may only need minimal support.

Additionally, consider the desired outcome of your project. Do you want a structured or more flowy look? This will help you determine the type of interfacing to use. It is also important to note that some fabrics cannot be ironed on, so sew-in interfacing would be the only option.

Another crucial factor to consider is the level of firmness needed for your project. If you want a garment with more body and structure, choose an interfacing with higher thickness or weight. On the other hand, if you want a softer and more flexible outcome, opt for lightweight or sheer interfacing.

How To Prepare The Fabric For Interfacing?

Properly preparing the fabric before attaching interfacing is essential as it affects the overall outcome of the project. Before cutting out pattern pieces from your fabric, make sure to prewash them according to its specific care instructions. This will prevent any shrinkage or change in shape after attaching interfacing.

After prewashing, iron out any wrinkles in the fabric using steam or spray starch if needed. Then lay out your fabric on a clean flat surface and align it with its grainline markings. The grainline indicates the direction of threads in woven fabrics and should match up with that of your pattern pieces.

Once aligned, take your pattern pieces and pin them accurately to avoid any shifting while cutting out. Cut out your pattern pieces following either a single layer or double layer cutting method depending on your preference.

How To Attach Sew-In Interfacing?

Attaching sew-in interfacing is relatively simple but requires patience and precision for optimal results.

Start by placing your cut-out interfacing pieces on top of the wrong side (non-visible) of your fabric. Make sure to match up the edges accurately with the fabric. Then, using an iron set to the correct temperature for your fabric, press gently on the right side of your fabric, melting the adhesive and attaching it to your fabric. Take care not to move or shift the interfacing while ironing.

Alternatively, you can use pins or temporary spray adhesive to hold the interfacing in place before ironing. Once attached, let it cool down and then move on to fusing the remaining pieces.

How To Sew-In Interfacing?

After attaching the interfacing, you can proceed with sewing your project as usual. It is recommended to use a slightly longer stitch length and a walking foot (if available) when sewing through both layers of fabric and interfacing. This will prevent puckering or distortion of stitches.

It is also essential to trim any excess or bulky areas of intersecting seams before turning out your project for a clean finish.

In summary, sew-in interfacing is a crucial tool in garment construction that provides structure, support, and stability to fabrics. Understanding its different types and how to choose and attach them correctly will ensure successful projects every time.

What is Sew In Interfacing?

Sew in interfacing is a popular sewing notion used to provide structure and stability to fabric projects. It is a type of fabric that is placed between two layers of fabric and then sewn into place. Its purpose is to give support, shape, and reinforcement to the fabric, making it easier to work with and enhancing the overall quality of the finished product.

There are many types of interfacing available on the market, including sew-in interfacing, fusible interfacing, and adhesive backed interfacing. Sew in interfacing is unique in that it does not require heat or adhesive to attach it to fabric. Instead, it relies on stitching techniques for proper application.

Why Use Sew In Interfacing?

Sew in interfacing has numerous benefits that make it a popular choice for different sewing projects. Here are some reasons why you should consider using sew in interfacing:

• Structure: Sewing projects often require a certain level of structure and stability. By using sew in interfacing, you can achieve the desired level of stiffness without adding bulkiness or changing the drape of your fabric.

• Versatility: One of the main advantages of sew in interfacing is its versatility. It can be used on various types of fabrics such as cotton, silk, linen, denim, wool, and more.

• Durability: Another significant benefit of using sew in interfacing is its durability. Unlike fusible or adhesive backed interfacing that may peel off after repeated washing or dry cleaning, sew-in interfacing stays securely in place.

• Professional Finish: By using high-quality sew-in interfacing, you can achieve a professional finish on your sewing projects. It helps prevent wrinkling or puckering around seams and gives a clean and crisp look to your garments.

How to Choose the Right Sew In Interfacing?

Choosing the right sew in interfacing is crucial for the success of your sewing projects. The type of interfacing you choose depends on the type of fabric, weight, and desired stiffness level. Here are some tips to help you choose the right sew-in interfacing:

• Consider fabric weight: Choose an interfacing that is suitable for the weight of your fabric. For lightweight fabrics, a lightweight interfacing will suffice. Similarly, for heavyweight fabrics, you will need a heavier or sturdier interfacing.

• Match stiffness: Decide on how stiff you want your fabric to be and match it with the appropriate level of stiffness in your sew-in interfacing. You can test this by holding up a piece of your fabric with a layer of interfacing and see if it achieves the desired level of stiffness.

• Test before use: It is always advisable to test a small piece of your chosen sew-in interfacing on a scrap piece of fabric before using it on your actual project. This way, you can make any necessary adjustments before committing to using it.

How to Use Sew In Interfacing?

Using sew in interfacing is not complicated, but it does require some sewing skills. Before starting, make sure you have all the necessary tools such as scissors, pins, marking tools, and an iron at hand. Here’s how to use sew in interfacing:

1. Prepare the Fabric: Begin by preparing your fabric pieces by pre-washing them if necessary and ironing out any wrinkles or creases.

2. Cut Out Interfacing: Place the pattern pieces facing down on top of your selected sew-in interfacing and trace around them with chalk or marking pens. Then cut out the interfacing following the pattern lines.

3. Pin Interfacing in Place: Pin the cut-out pieces of sew-in interfacing onto the wrong side of corresponding fabric pieces using more pins around edges, and fewer pins in the center.

4. Sew in Interfacing: Using a sewing machine, sew the interfacing to the fabric with a basting stitch (a long straight stitch).

5. Trim Seam Allowance: After sewing, trim the seam allowance on the interfacing side only (not on the fabric side) using pinking shears or regular scissors for a smoother finish.

6. Press Interfacing: Now it’s time to press the interfacing onto the fabric. Set your iron to a low or medium heat setting and press with gentle up-and-down movements without moving your iron back and forth. Be careful not to stretch the fabric or distort its shape.

7. Trim Fabric Edges: Once you have pressed all the interfacing pieces to their corresponding fabric pieces, trim any excess fabric sticking out from around the edges.

8. Continue sewing as usual: After applying sew-in interfacing, follow your pattern instructions as usual. Since it provides structure and support, you may need to adjust your seam allowance or needle size when sewing through multiple layers of fabrics including interfacing.

Sew in interfacing is an essential tool that can help you achieve professional-looking results in your sewing projects. With its

Q: What is a sew in interfacing?
A: Sew in interfacing is a type of fabric that is sewn onto the wrong side of the main fabric to add stability and structure to a garment or sewing project.

Q: How do I choose the right sew in interfacing?
A: The right sew in interfacing will depend on the type of fabric you are using and the level of stiffness or support you want to add. It’s important to test different types of interfacing on scrap fabrics before using them on your final project.

Q: Can I use sew in interfacing on any type of fabric?
A: Yes, sew in interfacing can be used on most fabrics, but it’s important to consider the weight and thickness of both the main fabric and the interfacing. You may need to adjust your sewing machine settings for thicker fabrics.

Q: How do I attach sew in interfacing?
A: To attach sew in interfacing, first cut it out according to your pattern pieces. Then, place it onto the wrong side of the main fabric and baste or pin it into place. Finally, stitch around the edges of the interfacing to secure it.

Q: Can I remove sew in interfacing after attaching it?
A: Yes, you can remove sew in interfacing if needed. Carefully clip or snip any visible stitches, then gently pull out the basting or pins to release the interfacing from the main fabric.

Q: Are there any special care instructions for garments with sew in interfacing?
A: Yes, garments with sew in interfacing may need special care depending on the type and weight of both fabrics used. It is recommended to follow washing instructions for both fabrics separately and avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage or melt the interfacing.

In conclusion, understanding how to use sew in interfacing is an essential skill for any sewing project. Whether it’s adding stability and structure to garments or providing a clean finish to bags and home decor items, interfacing plays a crucial role in achieving professional results.

Firstly, we discussed the purpose and types of interfacing, emphasizing the importance of selecting the appropriate type for each project. From lightweight fusible interfacings for delicate fabrics to heavy-duty sew-in interfacings for heavier materials, understanding the differences between each type is key in achieving desired outcomes.

We then delved into the steps involved in using sew-in interfacing, including pre-washing the fabric and interface, transferring pattern markings, and cutting and basting them together before sewing. These steps are crucial in ensuring that the interfacing adheres well to the fabric without creating any puckering or distortion.

Next, we explored some tips and tricks for using sew-in interfacing successfully, such as using a press cloth while ironing and testing out different weights of interfacing on scrap fabric before committing to a final choice.

Moreover, we discussed how sew-in interfacing can be used not only on garments but also on various other projects such as bags, accessories, and home decor items. Its versatility makes it a

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.

Mastering the Art of Sewing: A Beginner’s Guide to Using Sew In Interfacing