There are several different types of interfacing that are available for making handbags. Choosing the right interfacing can make or break your handbag project. You want to make sure that when you are making a handbag it does not look homemade. Interfacing can help you achieve this. I have worked with all of the interfacings except the décor bond that I have listed below. You can purchase all of the interfacings at your local Joann Fabrics. I will go over each one in detail and provide an example. *This post contains affliate links*
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987F Fusible Fleece
Fusible fleece is a stabilizer that is fused to fabric, it is made of polyester and has heat activated adhesive on one or both sides. It adds a layer of stability, softness, and body to your project. You can purchase fusible fleece precut or by the yard. When you apply fusible fleece to the fabric, the adhesive (bumpy) side is placed face down on the wrong side of the fabric and use an iron to apply heat.
TP971F Fusible Thermolam
Thermolam is a needled fleece with fusible adhesive on one side. This interfacing is 100% polyester and thicker than fusible fleece. You can purchase thermolam by the yard, it is great for using on craft projects with fabric, wood, or cardboard. When you apply fusible thermolam to the fabric, the adhesive (bumpy) side is placed face down on the wrong side of the fabric and use an iron to apply heat.
SF-101 Shape Flex Fusible Woven
Shape-Flex is a 100% cotton, all-purpose, woven fusible interfacing. This interfacing can be used in garments as well as craft products, it is intended for light to medium woven and knit fabrics, including chambray, gingham, flannel, and polyester/cotton blends. You can purchase shape flex prepackaged or by the yard. When you apply shape flex to the fabric, the adhesive (bumpy) side is placed face down on the wrong side of the fabric and use an iron to apply heat.
71F Peltex Single Sided Fusible
71F peltex is an ultra-firm, smooth, heavyweight stabilizer for accessories, crafts, home decorating, machine embroidery, and quilting. You can purchase this interfacing by the yard and there is also a sew in version. When you apply peltex to the fabric, the adhesive (bumpy) side is placed face down on the wrong side of the fabric and use an iron to apply heat.
809 Decor Bond
Décor bond is a 90% polyesters, 10% rayon firm, nonwoven, fusible stabilizer that provides extra support. It is fantastic for use in placemats, lamp shades, and wallets. You can purchase this interfacing by the yard. When you apply décor bond to the fabric, the adhesive (bumpy) side is placed face down on the wrong side of the fabric and use an iron to apply heat.
Pellon FF78F1 Flex-Foam
Flex-Foam a lightweight stabilizer consisting of a layer of foam sandwiched between two layers of soft fabric, it is 100% Polyester Fabric Outer/100% Polyurethane Inner. You can purchase this interfacing prepackaged or by the yard from several different vendors and it comes in sew-in, 1-sided fusible or 2-sided fusible. For the best results, sew in your foam interfacing to avoid wrinkles in your outer fabric. Flex-Foam adds shape and body to projects such as computer cases, eyeglass cases, purses, tote bags, diaper bags, and more!
