Sewing dictionary: Nonwovens

What is nonwoven fabric? Your indispensable sewing helper

Are you a passionate sewer and looking for ways to optimize your sewing projects? Then you'll love nonwoven fabric! Let's delve into the wonderful world of nonwovens together and discover how they can be your invisible sewing helper. Find out what nonwovens are, what types there are and how they can be used to take your sewing to the next level.

What is nonwoven?

Non-woven fabric consists of many individual fibers that are not woven, which is why they are not textiles in the traditional sense. The production methods vary, which determines the possible applications of nonwoven fabric. Nonwovens are often used in upholstery, laminate insulation or clothing, where they often remain hidden. However, they can also appear in more obvious forms, such as in cosmetic wipes or diapers. The fibers often come from synthetics, which makes nonwoven durable and easy to care for, especially in sewing, where it is often used in the form of interfacing or batting.

Why do you need fleece for sewing?

Fleece is the inconspicuous but very important partner of fabric. It provides stability and support and can also create volume or provide warmth. Its effect varies depending on its thickness and type, but in any case, fleece is a reliable companion for any sewing work.

Which nonwovens are frequently used for sewing?

Iron-on fleece

The term "iron-on stabilizer" is often used synonymously with the brand name "Vlieseline". This nonwoven fabric is ironed onto the fabric to reinforce it. Despite its various uses on fabrics, leather, raffia, wood and cardboard, it is easy to use: ironed on with a damp cloth at a low temperature, it guarantees adhesion and stability. Ideal for appliqués, it offers numerous creative possibilities.

One variant is Vlieseline H250, which is characterized by its strength and durability and is ideal for bags or belts. It is suitable for light to medium-weight fabrics such as cotton.

Fusing Vlieseline H250:

1. Place the interfacing on the wrong side of the outer fabric.
2. Set the iron to "wool" and press it slowly over the entire interlining. Repeat the process about five to six times, holding it for eight seconds at each point.
3. Leave the fabric to cool flat for about 20 minutes.

Decovil I Light

Decovil I Light is another iron-on fleece. With a leather-like feel, it is particularly crease-resistant and ideal for reinforcing bags and hats. It is washable and keeps your creations in shape.

Processing of material: from Decovil:

1. Steam the fabrics to prevent subsequent shrinkage.
2. Place the coated side of the fleece on the wrong side of the fabric.
3. Fix the fleece with a damp cloth and an iron set to "wool". Press it onto the fabric in stages for six seconds.
4. Leave the pieces to cool flat.

Volume fleece - ideal for patchwork & quilting

Vlieseline HH650 (volume fleece)

Vlieseline HH650 is particularly suitable for double-face work. It bonds fabrics on both sides and is suitable for a variety of materials, making it ideal for padding.

Application of Vlieseline HH650:

1. Place the batting between the layers of fabric, making sure that there are no creases.
2. Iron carefully with an iron set to "wool/cotton" and a damp cloth and hold for 15 seconds.
3. Stabilizing topstitching can additionally secure the batting.

Vlieseline 272 Thermolam (volume fleece)

Vlieseline 272 Thermolam is ideal for warm jackets or quilts. With good heat retention and breathability, it is suitable for many types of fabric.

Use it by placing it under your fabric and sewing it in place. Due to its heat resistance, it is also suitable as an ironing carpet pad.

Solufleece - for creative sewing and embroidery work

You can give free rein to your creativity with washable solufleece. It serves as a supportive carpet pad for sewing and embroidery work and dissolves in cold water. Perfect for fine or transparent fabrics and a variety of applications such as lace embroidery or appliqué.

Working with solufleece:

1. Place solufleece under the fabric.
2. Stretch both in a embroidery hoop or embroider only on the stabilizer.
3. Simply wash out the stabilizer after embroidering.

For collages or the pizza technique, use Solu stabilizer as a base. Place fabrics or materials on it, fix them with temporary adhesive spray and sew everything before washing out the Soluvlies.

Lamifix - for dirt-resistant projects

Lamifix gives fabrics practical protection. It makes it easier to clean your sewing work, such as placemats or bags, as they can simply be wiped clean. Lamifix is ironed onto the fabric and is ideal for projects that need to stay clean.

Instructions for using Lamifix:

1. Roughly cut Lamifix to size and place it shiny side up on the right side of the fabric.
2. Iron it on lightly - iron setting: wool/cotton.
3. Cut out precisely.
4. Fuse it gradually with a dry cloth at a higher temperature.
5. Leave to cool well.

overview of fleece fabrics at VBS

Conclusion

Non-woven fabrics are true all-rounders and give your sewing projects stability, volume and protection. Whether you want to create quilts, bags or appliqués, the right nonwoven makes all the difference. Visit our online store and discover the variety of nonwovens at VBS. Let your creativity run wild and take your sewing creations to the next level!