Sewing is a hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and experience levels. Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been sewing for years, it’s always important to brush up on the basics.
Interfacing is an important part of sewing. It helps to give your fabric extra stability and prevents it from stretching or becoming distorted. In this guide, we will discuss what interfacing is, the different types that are available, and how to use it in your sewing projects.
What Does Interfacing Means In Sewing?
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Interfacing is a material used to give additional support or structure to sewing projects. It is often used in collars, cuffs, waistbands, and other areas where extra stability is needed. Interfacing can be made from a variety of materials including cotton, polyester, nylon, and even hair.
These days, interfacing comes in both sew-in and iron-on varieties. It is also available in a variety of weights, which will be discussed later on. Interfacing can be found at most fabric stores.
Interfacing can add stability and structure to areas that need it. This is especially important in garments that will be worn often or that need to hold their shape well. This can also add a bit of extra padding and protection to areas that may be subject to wear and tear.
Different Types Of Interfacing In Sewing
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There are different types of interfacing available on the market, each with its own unique properties. The most common types of interfacing are woven, non-woven, and knit.
Woven Interfacing
Woven interfacing is made from threads that are woven together in a grid-like pattern. This type of interfacing is very strong and can be used to stabilize areas of your garment that receive a lot of stress, such as buttonholes or waistbands.
One benefit of woven interfacing is that it doesn’t add any bulk to your garment since the threads are so tightly woven together.
Non-Woven Interfacing
Non-woven interfacing is made from fibers that are bonded together using heat, chemicals, or adhesive. This type of interfacing is less bulky than woven interfacing and can be used in a variety of different garments.
Non-woven interfacing is also available in a variety of different weights, so you can choose the interfacing that is best suited for your garment. One advantage of non-woven interfacing is that it can be used on both sides of the fabric, which makes it ideal for use in collars and cuffs.
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Knit Interfacing
Knit interfacing is made from a knit fabric that is usually made from polyester or nylon. This type of interfacing is very stretchy and can be used in garments that need to stretch, such as knitwear.
Knit interfacing is also very lightweight, making it a good choice for use in delicate garments.
Now that you know the different types of interfacing available, you can choose the interfacing that is best suited for your garment.
Tips On Using Interfacing In Your Sewing Projects
Interfacing can be a great way to add structure and support to your sewing projects, but it’s important to use it correctly. Here are a few tips for using interfacing in your next project:
- Always test a small piece of the interfacing on a scrap of fabric from your project to make sure you like the way it works before cutting and applying it to your garment.
- When cutting interfacing, be sure to cut it on the bias (on the diagonal) to avoid stretch.
- Now that you know all about interfacing, you can start using it in your
- Be sure to apply interfacing to both sides of a piece of fabric if you want it to be stiff.
- You can use interfacing to stabilize tricky fabrics like silk or satin that are difficult to sew.
- Make sure to wash and dry your fabric before applying it to the interface, as it will shrink along with the fabric.
- Don’t forget to remove the interfacing before washing your garment, unless you want it to be permanent.
- Be sure to press your interfacing before applying it to your fabric. This will help it adhere better and prevent bubbling.
- Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying interfacing. This will ensure that you get the best results.
Interfacing is an important part of many sewing projects, but it’s important to use it correctly. By following these tips, you can ensure that your next sewing project turns out just the way you want it to!
Final Words
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In conclusion, interfacing is an important part of sewing. It can add structure and stability to your garments and projects. When used correctly, it can make all the difference in the finished product. Using the wrong interfacing can ruin a project, so it’s important to choose the right one for the job. With a little practice, you’ll be an expert in no time!
This guide should have given you a good understanding of what interfacing is, how to use it, and what types are available. With this knowledge, you can sew with confidence, knowing that your garments will have the structure and support they need. Thanks for reading!

My name is Kimberly Mitchell and I am the founder of teamsewing.com. With more than 10 years of experience in the sewing industry, I am dedicated to providing valuable insights into the latest technology, tips and trends in using a sewing machine. Through my blog, I provide practical advice and resources that help sewists take their projects to the next level. I hope to share my knowledge and experience with the sewing community!