Stabilizer vs interfacing

[Onetiredmomma]

So, I made a mistake. I have a bag of something (either stabilizer or interfacing) and I'm not sure which it is, now. It's been sitting in my fabric trunk. I'm so irritated. Is there any way to tell the difference and if not, what's going to happen if I use stabilizer on my tshirt quilt?

[Sandy Navas]

Re: Stabilizer vs interfacing

So, I made a mistake. I have a bag of something (either stabilizer or interfacing) and I'm not sure which it is, now. It's been sitting in my fabric trunk. I'm so irritated. Is there any way to tell the difference and if not, what's going to happen if I use stabilizer on my tshirt quilt?

Some stabilizers and interfacings can be interchangeable although not always recommended. I do machine embroidery and use several different types of stabilizers depending upon the fabric and the use. For instance, there are some items that I use a water-soluble stabilizer on - it completely washes out and is not needed once the items are laundered. There are tear-away stabilizers - which you remove after sewing. There are also cut-away stabilizers - where you cut the bulk off after sewing. None of those three would be suitable as a backing for quilting if the quilt would be laundered (the cut-away would maybe work but would make the item heavier). Tear-away will react in water like a tissue and will make a lumpy mess in your quilt.

Pellon makes a woven interface that is like a light-weight cotton with a water-activated glue that can be used quilting. There are probably others with which I am not familiar. Look closely at your 'product' and if it appears to be a woven material it is probably safe to use. Otherwise, I would try a simple test of soaking a piece in warm water and see what happens. You should also be able to feel to see if there is any type of adhesive on your product. Not all stabilizers would have an adhesive so they wouldn't work on your t-shirts to provide the support you need.

I feel like I'm rambling, so hopefully this will make some sense to you and you can determine whether you can use what you have.

[Onetiredmomma]

Re: Stabilizer vs interfacing

Thanks Sandy. I started sorting through the bag and it looks like I had bought stabilizer and interfacing. The stabilizer is cut away with no iron on sticky thingys so I am in luck. I'm getting to the point that I'm going to have to organize my stash and notions and stuff. It's exciting, but if you've seen my little house you'd be a bit worried.