How to use the warp fusible interface

If you are not familiar with the warp fusible joint, it is a fusible joint with 2-way or 4-way stretch, traditionally used to stabilize knitted fabrics. Fusible means it will stick to the fabric when heated with an iron. Best of all, it works with both woven garment fabrics and knitted fabrics. There are so many different types of interfaces that it can be confusing to decide which is best for your project. As a garment sewer, I use Tricot fusible joints for waistbands, collars, facings, and plackets; I also use it to reinforce zippers, buttonholes, and pockets.

I work with knitted and woven fabrics and I have found that warp knitted fusible joints do most of my needs. Also, I like the convenience of keeping a fusible switch on hand. I started this practice because when I was in the clothing business at a custom clothing store, Tricot was what we used. In that store, we never use knitted fabrics, but we do work on leather, lace, denim, silk, rayon and many other apparel fabrics. You might be concerned that while warp knits are stretchy, your woven fabrics are not.

Don't worry; since the interface is thermally bonded to the fabric, it will only stretch as far as your fabric stretches, and most woven fabrics have a little lateral stretch or yield in the weave. If you sew with knitting, then warp knitting is definitely your best option. When cutting, keep in mind that the warp knit is textured, make sure the fusible texture matches the texture of the fabric.

When you use a warp-knitted fusible joint, you can maintain the original drape of the fabric while adding stability and structure when needed. For this example, I used Fusible Lining as the finish for the fringed dress. This neckline in fringed dress View B requires a nice, crisp corner, and tricot knit does that without being too stiff. It also works on View A with a curved neckline, which is closed with a stabilizing central front buckle.