Can I Use Felt Instead of Interfacing?
Let’s start by addressing your fears. If you’re unsure whether felt is a good alternative to interfacing, let me clarify things for you.
When choosing between felts and interfacing, it’s essential to consider the specific needs of your project. If you need extra stability or shape, interfacing is the best option; but if you are looking for something to prevent the fabric from shifting or wrinkling, felt maybe a better choice.
In addition, if you are working with a very lightweight or delicate fabric, interfacing designed for heavyweight fabrics may be the best option. Whichever you choose, make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully so that you know how to use them correctly.
When using felt as an interfacing substitute, always try to use only one layer of interfacing (felt). If your project requires more than one layer of interfacing, consider using another option.
Before deciding on felt, let’s weigh out the pros and cons first!
Pros of Using Felt as Interfacing
Felt is Readily Available and Affordable
One great thing about felt is that it’s super easy to find in most craft stores and even online. You might even have some lying around your house right now! Plus, felt is generally quite affordable, meaning you can stock up without breaking the bank.
Felt is Easy to Work With
If you’re new to sewing or crafting, felt can be a more user-friendly material to work with compared to some types of interfacing. It doesn’t fray, which makes cutting and sewing it a breeze, and it can be easily glued or stitched together.
Cons of Using Felt as Interfacing
Felt Doesn’t Offer the Same Stability as Interfacing
One of the main cons is that felt doesn’t offer the same level of stability that you’ll typically find with interfacing. Interfacing is specifically designed to add structure and support to fabrics, helping them maintain their shape and preventing them from stretching out. Felt, on the other hand, isn’t always as sturdy, and you might find that your finished project doesn’t have the same polished look as it would with interfacing.
Felt Can Alter the Appearance and Feel of Your Project
Another drawback of using felt as interfacing is that it can change the appearance and feel of the fabric you’re working with. Felt is typically thicker and more rigid than most types of interfacing, which can make your sewing projects feel heavy and bulky. Additionally, the added thickness from the felt might make some fabrics or patterns look different than you originally planned, and you may not be happy with the final result.
Felt May Not Be Suitable for All Projects and Fabrics
Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that felt might not be the best choice for all sewing projects or fabric types. Felt is not a heat-resistant material and can melt when exposed to high temperatures, making it unsuitable for use in projects that require ironing or heat pressing. Additionally, felt may not provide the necessary support for sheer or delicate fabrics.
While using felt as an alternative to interfacing can be a cost-effective and approachable choice, it does come with some drawbacks. Depending on your specific project and fabric needs, you may be better off sticking with interfacing for the best results.
Choosing the Right Felt for the Job
As you have learned by now, felt can add sturdiness and structure to your projects, just like interfacing can. But before we get too excited, let’s talk about choosing the right felt for the job.
Types of Felt
First things first, not all felt is created equal. There are a few different types to choose from. Let’s take a look at the options:
- Acrylic felt: This type of felt is made of synthetic fibers, and it’s the most common and affordable option you’ll find at the craft store. Acrylic felt is quite versatile, but it may not be the best choice if you need something very stiff or if your project will be exposed to wear and tear.
- Wool felt: Made from natural fibers, wool felt is a bit more expensive than acrylic but offers a more luxurious look and feel. It’s also more durable and can provide a stiffer structure for your projects.
- Wool blend felt: As the name suggests, this type of felt is a blend of synthetic and natural fibers. It offers a good balance between the affordability of acrylic felt and the durability of wool felt.
Determining the Right Thickness
Once you’ve chosen the type of felt that’s best for your project, you’ll also need to consider the thickness. Felt comes in varying thicknesses, ranging from very thin (about 1mm) to really thick (5mm or more). The thickness you choose depends on what you need the felt to do for your project.
If you’re using felt as an alternative to lightweight interfacing, then a thinner felt could be a suitable option. However, if you need more structure and support, a thicker felt might be more appropriate. Keep in mind that the thickness of the felt can also affect the drape and flexibility of your finished project.
Color Considerations
One of the fun things about felt is the wide variety of colors available! But when you’re using it as an interfacing alternative, do the colors really matter? Well, it depends on your project.
If the felt will be visible in your finished piece, then you’ll want to choose a color that complements your fabric. On the other hand, if the felt will be hidden inside your project, then the color doesn’t matter quite as much. Just be cautious with dark-colored felt on light fabrics, as it could potentially show through.
Some Tips for Using Felt As a Substitute
If you use a pattern that requires interfacing, you can use felt as a substitute. Just follow these simple steps:
Tips to Help You Get Started with Felt
If you’re new to working with felt, here are a few tips to help you get started:
Use Sharp Cutting Tools
Always use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter when cutting out your pieces. This will help ensure that your edges are clean and precise.
Use Comfortable Sewing Methods
For most projects, you’ll need to sew the pieces together. A primary sewing machine should do the trick, but you can also hand-stitch the pieces together if you’re not comfortable using one.
Do Some Exercise with Scrap Felt
If you’re not familiar with felting, practicing on some scrap felt before starting your project can be a great idea. This will help ensure that the finished product resembles what you have in mind.
Common Uses of Felt
When working with felts that are intended for use in crafting projects, you should not expect them to behave precisely like interfacing.
However, they can provide many of the same properties, and they can offer similar benefits when it comes to sewing. Here are just a few of the most common ways people use felts instead of interfacing.
Adding Structure and Stability
Because Felt is thicker than interfacing, it can help add support and structure to the fabric. This is especially useful when working with lightweight fabrics, as it can help prevent the fabric from stretching or becoming distorted.
Preventing the Fabric from Shifting Or Becoming Distorted
Felt can also be used to prevent the fabric from shifting or becoming distorted. This is especially helpful when working with a pattern that requires precise measurements.
As a Patch
If you have a hole or tear in your fabric, you can use a piece of Felt as a patch. Felt is thick and durable, so it can help to reinforce the damaged area and prevent further damage.
As a Lining
Felt can also be used as a lining, which can help to add extra protection and warmth to your garment.
Adding Structure and Stability to Collars and Cuffs
Felt can be used to add structure and stability to facings, such as collars and cuffs. This is a good choice when the facing keeps its shape after multiple wash or dry cleanings.
8 Project Ideas Where Felt Can Be Used as Interfacing
Let’s dive into the world of creativity and explore some fun projects where felt can act as a great alternative to interfacing. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also adds an interesting texture and a pop of color. Are you ready to level up your sewing and crafting game?
1. Handmade Bags and Purses
Felt can be used as a stabilizer between the lining and outer fabric of bags and purses, giving them structure and durability. This way, your bags can maintain their shape while keeping all your items safe and sound. Choose a felt color that complements your fabric for a chic and stylish look.
2. DIY Fabric Coasters
Who said coasters have to be boring and dull? Jazz up your coffee table or dining area with some custom-made fabric coasters. Use felt in between the top and bottom layers to provide extra sturdiness and absorbency. Plus, these make for great personalized gifts for friends and family.
3. Patchwork Quilting
If you’re into quilting, using felt instead of interfacing can add a plush and warm quality to your projects, making them super cozy. Felt gives your patchwork quilt a bit more structure, keeping the patches aligned and ensuring a long-lasting creation. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings or as a special gift for loved ones.
4. Decorative Pillows
Felt can be used as interfacing when making decorative pillows to provide body and stability to the design. You can even use it as an added layer between fabrics to create unique patterns or shapes. This way, your throw pillows not only look fashionable, but they’ll also last longer for all those afternoon naps and movie nights.
5. Embroidery and Appliqué projects
When it comes to embroidery and appliqué, felt can add dimension and make your designs pop. Use it as a background layer for an interesting textured effect, or sandwich it between fabrics to make your stitches stand out. Not only does felt provide support, but it also creates a more plush and luxurious feel to your creations.
6. Fabric Book Covers and Planners
Personalize your notebooks, planners or e-readers with custom-made fabric covers! Use felt as the interfacing to provide a sturdy base and maintain the shape of the cover while protecting your precious pages. You can also add pockets or pen holders for added functionality. These fabric covers are not only practical but also an excellent way to showcase your style and creativity.
7. Costume and Cosplay Accessories
Bring your favorite characters to life with felt-interfaced costume and cosplay accessories. Add structure and durability to collars, cuffs, masks, or any other elaborate elements without compromising on comfort. Choose felt colors that match or enhance your designs and let your imagination run wild!
8. Stuffed Toys and Plushies
Give your stuffed toys and plushies a little extra firmness by using felt as interfacing. This hidden layer of support will make them hold their shape better and last longer, providing endless cuddles for little ones (and not-so-little ones too!). Felt is also a fantastic option to create appliqué-like details or facial features on your plushies.
Can I Use Essential Oils as a Substitute for Interfacing?
Yes, essential oils can be used as a substitute for interfacing in some cases. By using a natural odor eliminator spray recipe with essential oils, you can protect your fabrics and eliminate any unwanted smells. This method provides a great alternative to traditional interfacing while also leaving your project smelling fresh and clean.
Conclusion
If you are looking to replace interfacing with Felt, then definitely no. Even though Felt may seem like the perfect interfacing substitute, there are still some cases when you should NOT use it. It is not as sturdy or stiff, meaning the garment will become misshapen and lose its shape after being worn only a few times.
As you now know, the direct answer to “Can I use felt instead of interfacing” is you may; using the right option will just be easier for you. Additionally, you can gather more knowledge about what is batting and what is batting fabric used for – in case you want to enrich your crafting knowledge. Happy crafting!
REFERENCES
- University of Kentucky
- Garment Manufacturing Technology
