You've chosen your interfacing, cut it to size, placed it on your fabric and pressed it with the iron.

But when you lift the iron, the interfacing hasn't stuck properly.

Or perhaps it looked fine initially, only to start lifting around the edges once the fabric cooled.

Don't worry – this is a very common problem, and in most cases there's a simple reason why your fusible interfacing isn't sticking.

In this guide, we'll look at the most common causes of fusible interfacing problems and explain how to get a reliable bond.

If you're new to fusible interfacing, you may also find our Complete Beginner's Guide to Fusible Interfacing useful.

First: check which side of the interfacing is fusible

This sounds obvious, but it's one of the most common mistakes.

Fusible interfacing has a coated side containing the adhesive.

Depending on the particular interfacing, this may be identified by small adhesive dots, a slightly shiny appearance or another manufacturer's marking.

The coated side needs to be placed against the wrong side of your fabric.

If you accidentally place the adhesive side facing upwards, it obviously won't bond to your fabric.

Worse, the adhesive can transfer onto your iron.

Not sure which side is which?

Always check the manufacturer's instructions for the particular interfacing you're using.

Different interfacings can look and feel slightly different, so don't assume that every product will have exactly the same appearance.

1. Your iron isn't hot enough

One of the most common reasons fusible interfacing doesn't stick is simply that the iron isn't reaching the temperature required by the adhesive.

Fusible adhesives need heat to activate.

If your iron is set too low, you may be able to press the interfacing firmly onto the fabric without actually activating the adhesive sufficiently.

What should you do?

Check the instructions supplied with your particular interfacing.

Manufacturers specify the appropriate temperature setting because different products use different adhesives and are designed for different fabrics.

Don't simply assume that "cotton" is always the correct setting.

For example, some lightweight interfacings may require a different setting from heavier products.

2. You're not applying enough heat for long enough

Heat is only part of the equation.

You also need to apply it for the correct amount of time.

One of the biggest mistakes people make is treating the iron like they're ironing clothes.

They place the iron down, move it around for a few seconds and then lift it.

That's not necessarily how fusible interfacing is designed to be applied.

Many fusible interfacings require the iron to be held in place for a specified period rather than continuously moved across the fabric.

Always follow the instructions for your particular product.

For example, our Vlieseline products include specific application instructions because the correct temperature, pressure and time are important for achieving a good bond.

3. You're moving the iron instead of pressing

This is closely related to the previous problem.

When ironing clothes, moving the iron around is exactly what you normally do.

When applying fusible interfacing, however, you often need to press and lift rather than iron backwards and forwards.

Place the iron on one section.

Apply the required pressure.

Hold it for the recommended time.

Lift the iron.

Move to the next section.

Repeat.

This helps ensure that every part of the interfacing receives the required heat and pressure.

4. You're not using enough pressure

Heat alone isn't always enough.

The adhesive also needs the appropriate pressure to create a good bond between the interfacing and the fabric.

If you're barely touching the iron to the fabric, you may not be applying enough pressure.

On the other hand, there's no need to force the iron down with excessive pressure.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions and use firm, controlled pressure.

5. You're trying to fuse too large an area at once

Large pieces of interfacing can be awkward to apply.

You may find that the middle sticks but the edges don't, or that some areas have received more heat than others.

The solution is simple:

Work methodically across the fabric.

Move the iron from one section to the next, making sure that the entire surface has received the correct amount of heat and pressure.

Overlap your pressing areas slightly so you don't accidentally leave untreated gaps.

6. The fabric isn't suitable for the interfacing

Not every interfacing is suitable for every fabric.

This is incredibly important.

An interfacing designed for a lightweight blouse isn't necessarily going to be the right choice for a heavy bag.

Similarly, a heavyweight interfacing may be completely unsuitable for delicate fabric.

Before applying your interfacing, check that the manufacturer recommends it for your particular fabric and project.

Consider:

• Fabric weight
• Fabric composition
• Stretch
• Intended use
• Required stiffness
• Washing requirements

Choosing the right interfacing is just as important as applying it correctly.

7. You're trying to fuse to a fabric that can't tolerate the required heat

Some fabrics simply don't respond well to high temperatures.

Delicate synthetic fabrics, coated fabrics and certain specialty textiles may require particular care.

If you're unsure, always test first.

Cut a small piece of your fabric and a small piece of the interfacing.

Apply the interfacing according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Allow it to cool.

Then check the result.

This is much better than discovering after you've interfaced an entire garment that the fabric has been damaged.

8. The fabric is damp

Some fusible interfacing instructions specifically require a damp cloth during application.

This is important because the moisture and heat can help activate the adhesive correctly.

However, not all interfacings are applied in exactly the same way.

This is why you shouldn't automatically use the same technique for every product.

Always follow the instructions supplied with your particular interfacing.

If your interfacing requires a damp pressing cloth, make sure it is damp rather than soaking wet.

9. You're trying to fuse it through too many layers

If you're applying interfacing to a fabric that already has several layers, the heat may not reach the adhesive effectively.

For example, trying to fuse interfacing through fabric, wadding and another fabric layer may not give you the same result as applying it directly to the fabric.

Whenever possible, apply fusible interfacing to the appropriate layer before assembling the rest of the project.

10. You haven't allowed it to cool

This is one of the easiest mistakes to make.

You've finished pressing your interfacing, lift the iron and immediately pick up the fabric.

It feels like the interfacing hasn't stuck.

But the adhesive may still be cooling and setting.

Many fusible interfacings benefit from being left completely undisturbed while they cool.

Why does cooling matter?

The adhesive needs time to set.

Moving or stretching the fabric immediately after fusing can interfere with the bond.

For some products, the manufacturer recommends allowing the fabric to cool completely before continuing with your project.

Follow the specific instructions for your interfacing.

11. The interfacing has been washed incorrectly

If your interfacing initially bonded correctly but later starts lifting, washing may be part of the problem.

Always check the manufacturer's washing instructions.

The temperature and washing method should be appropriate for both the fabric and the interfacing.

If you're making a garment or another washable item, it's particularly important to consider this before starting the project.

12. You're using an old or damaged interfacing

Interfacing doesn't necessarily last forever.

If it has been stored somewhere hot, damp or otherwise unsuitable, the adhesive can potentially be affected.

Before using older interfacing, check that:

• It looks normal
• The adhesive coating is intact
• It hasn't become brittle
• It hasn't been exposed to excessive heat or moisture

If you're unsure, test a small piece before using it on your project.

What if the interfacing is bubbling?

Bubbling is another common fusible interfacing problem.

If your interfacing appears smooth immediately after pressing but develops bubbles or wrinkles afterwards, it may be due to several factors.

Possible causes include:

• Insufficient heat
• Insufficient pressing time
• Incorrect application technique
• Fabric shrinkage
• Moving the fabric before it has cooled
• Using an unsuitable interfacing
• Applying the interfacing unevenly

The best approach is to go back to the manufacturer's application instructions and check each stage.

Don't simply keep increasing the temperature of the iron.

More heat isn't necessarily the answer.

What if only the edges aren't sticking?

If the centre of the interfacing is firmly attached but the edges are lifting, check that the edges have actually received sufficient heat and pressure.

It's easy to concentrate on the middle of a piece while accidentally missing the perimeter.

When applying the interfacing, work systematically from one area to the next and make sure the iron reaches the entire piece.

A pressing cloth can also help protect your iron and fabric, depending on the manufacturer's instructions.

Can I iron the interfacing again?

Often, yes – but check the manufacturer's instructions first.

If the interfacing hasn't bonded properly, carefully reapply the recommended heat and pressure to the affected area.

Allow it to cool completely before checking the result.

If it still doesn't bond, don't keep repeatedly increasing the temperature.

Instead, investigate the cause.

It may be that you've chosen the wrong interfacing for the fabric or that the application method isn't suitable for that particular product.

Always test your interfacing first

If you're working with an expensive fabric or a project that would be difficult to repair, testing first is always worthwhile.

Cut a small piece of your fabric.

Cut a small piece of interfacing.

Apply it using the manufacturer's recommended method.

Allow it to cool completely.

Then test the bond.

Try gently lifting the edge.

Check that the fabric hasn't changed appearance.

If the result isn't right, you've only sacrificed a tiny piece of fabric rather than an entire project.

Choosing the right fusible interfacing

Sometimes the problem isn't your ironing technique at all.

It could simply be that you're using the wrong interfacing.

Different interfacings are designed for different jobs.

For example, you might choose a different product for:

Lightweight dressmaking — you may want a lightweight interfacing that adds support without making the fabric stiff.

Collars and cuffs — a firmer interfacing may be appropriate where you need additional structure.

Bags — you may want more body and stability, depending on the style of bag and fabric.

Quilting — the requirements can be completely different again.

If you're unsure, look at the manufacturer's recommendations and consider what you want the finished fabric to feel and behave like.

Need new interfacing?

At The Yorkshire Sewing Guy, we stock a growing range of fusible interfacings and interlinings, including Vlieseline, our own TYSG range of non-woven interlinings, and Fuse-A-Web bonding web.

If you're unsure which interfacing is suitable for your project, get in touch.

Tell us:

• What fabric you're using
• What you're making
• How much structure you need
• Whether the finished item needs to be washable

and we'll do our best to point you towards a suitable option.

Quick checklist: Why isn't my interfacing sticking?

Before giving up, check:

• Is the adhesive side against the fabric?
• Is the iron at the correct temperature?
• Are you using the manufacturer's recommended pressing method?
• Are you holding the iron in place for long enough?
• Are you applying enough pressure?
• Has the entire piece been fused?
• Is the interfacing suitable for your fabric?
• Is the fabric suitable for the required heat?
• Are you allowing the fabric to cool completely?
• Have you followed the washing instructions?

In most cases, one of these will reveal the problem.

And remember: don't guess with fusible interfacing.

The instructions supplied with the particular product you're using should always take priority, because application temperatures and techniques can vary between products.

More sewing guides from The Yorkshire Sewing Guy

If you're learning about interfacing, you may also find our other sewing and fabric guides useful.

We're building a growing library of practical guides designed to answer the questions that come up when you're actually making something – not just tell you what products to buy.

You can browse our full range of fusible interfacings and interlinings here, or read our Complete Beginner's Guide to Fusible Interfacing if you're just getting started.

Happy sewing!

Jamie
The Yorkshire Sewing Guy