Interfacing, batting and stabilisers are the quiet, unseen foundations of many sewing and quilting projects. Although they are rarely visible in a finished piece, the quality of the result depends on the care taken in choosing the appropriate supporting material. Many makers find that their projects become more professional, more durable and easier to construct once they understand how these essential materials work.
Vlieseline is one of the most respected names in this field. As a long-established European company, formerly known as Vilene, it produces interlinings, battings and stabilisers of consistently high quality. These products may not be considered glamorous, but they are essential. A well-chosen Vlieseline material quietly and reliably supports the fabric, allowing the maker’s work to shine. At Quilt Direct, we value the craftsmanship and dependable performance found throughout the Vlieseline range, and we are pleased to offer a broad selection to support makers of every skill level.
This guide introduces the three main categories of support materials and explains how they differ, helping both new and experienced sewists make informed choices across dressmaking, quilting and decorative craft.
What Is Interfacing
Interfacing is the supporting fabric or nonwoven material applied to the wrong side of a garment piece to give it firmness, shape, or stability. It is most commonly used in collars, cuffs, facings, button bands, waistbands and structured areas of coats and jackets. Interfacing prevents stretching, strengthens seams and allows a garment to hold its intended silhouette.
There are two main types of interfacing.
This has a fine adhesive coating on one side, which bonds to the fabric when pressed with a warm iron through a damp cloth. It is quick to apply and gives a smooth, even finish.
This is attached by stitching and is ideal for heat-sensitive fabrics such as lace, pleated fabrics, open weaves and fabrics that show press marks easily.
Interfacing varies in weight, structure and stretch. A delicate blouse will behave very differently from a tailored jacket, so selecting a suitable interfacing is essential.
What Is Batting
Batting is the soft, insulating layer used inside quilt sandwiches, padded bags, decorative panels and warm garments. It adds loft, texture and comfort. The thickness of the batting influences the drape and appearance of the finished quilt, while the fibre content affects warmth and handling.
Common types include the following.
Ideal for smaller quilted items, bag making, table runners, and garments that require only gentle loft. Fusible options such as Vlieseline H 630 adhere lightly to the fabric, which helps prevent shifting during quilting.
Provides more body and warmth. Vlieseline H 640 is a popular choice for jackets, coats and quilted accessories.
Heavyweight sewable batting
Used when additional thickness or insulation is required. Vlieseline 272 Thermolam is a soft, compact, sewable batting with excellent insulating properties, often chosen for potholders, pot mats, ironing pads, and structured patchwork projects. It provides dependable heat resistance while remaining flexible and easy to sew.
What Are Stabilisers
Stabilisers are temporary or semi-permanent supporting layers used mainly for embroidery, appliqué and fine decorative techniques. Their purpose is to prevent the base fabric from stretching, puckering or losing shape during stitching.
The main types are as follows.
Tear away stabilisers
These are removed gently after stitching and are ideal for stable fabrics and for craft applications. Vlieseline Stitch-N-Tear is our best-selling stabiliser and is used in the Quilt Direct studio every day for stitching demonstrations, decorative machine stitches and for hooping projects for machine embroidery. Vlieseline Fuse-N-Tear offers the same clean removal with the added benefit of a temporary fusible layer for extra stability during stitching.
Wash away stabilisers
These dissolve entirely in water and are suitable for lacework, freestanding motifs and delicate embroidery. Useful options include Vlieseline Solufleece for soft support and Vlieseline Solufix for a water-soluble adhesive layer for precise placement.
Permanent stabilisers
Used when a long-term structure is required, for example, bowls, boxes, bags and structured textile pieces. These stabilisers remain within the project to provide firm, lasting support. A popular choice is Vlieseline S 320, a versatile craft interlining that offers a stable, smooth finish.
How to Choose the Correct Product
To choose the correct supporting material, consider the following questions.
What is the purpose of the project?
A blouse collar, a quilted bag and a freestanding embroidered motif each require different types of support.
How should the finished item behave?
Should it drape softly, hold a firm shape, or remain flexible even when stitched
Once these points are clear, the correct Vlieseline product becomes easier to identify.
The Importance of Testing
Quilt Direct recommend testing every interfacing, batting or stabiliser on a small scrap of fabric before beginning the main project. A test piece confirms the correct temperature, pressing time and level of support. It also reveals any unexpected changes in texture or drape.
This simple step is one of the best ways to ensure a professional result.
Final Thoughts
Interfacing, batting and stabilisers are essential tools for dressmaking, quilting and creative sewing. They provide structure, control and consistency, allowing fabric to behave exactly as intended.
By understanding the differences between these materials and selecting the correct Vlieseline product for each task, you can enhance the quality of every project and create pieces that look beautiful and wear well.
If you would like guidance in choosing the most suitable Vlieseline product for your next project, the Quilt Direct team is always pleased to help.