Pellon Interfacing Weight Guide — Which Weight Should You Use?

Pellon Interfacing Weights Compared — Featherweight vs Sew-In vs Fusible

Pellon makes interfacing in a range of weights and application methods. Picking the wrong one is one of the most common sewing and quilting mistakes. Here’s a complete guide to matching Pellon interfacing to your project.

Linda’s Electric Quilters Expert Comparison

Pellon Interfacing Types

Product Type Weight Best For
Pellon 906F Fusible Sheerweight Fusible Very light Lightweight fabrics, silk, chiffon Sheer
Pellon SF101 Shape-Flex Fusible woven Light Bags, garments, quilt binding backings Most Popular
Pellon 931TD Fusible Midweight Fusible Medium Collars, cuffs, bag structure
Pellon 809 Décor-Bond Fusible Heavy Home dec, bags needing firm structure Stiff
Pellon 805 Wonder-Under Fusible web (adhesive) N/A Applique — bonds two fabrics together
▶ Quick Rule Match the interfacing weight to the base fabric: light interfacing for lightweight fabrics, medium for structured garments, heavy for bags and home dec. Wonder-Under is not interfacing — it’s a bonding web used for applique and craft joins.

Application Method Guide

Use Fusible if you…

  • Want to press-on without sewing
  • Work with most standard quilting and garment fabrics
  • Want faster construction
  • Are making bags, garments, and structured items

Use Sew-In if you…

  • Are working with delicate fabrics that can’t tolerate iron heat
  • Make couture or tailored garments
  • Prefer a softer, more flexible result
  • The fabric is heat-sensitive (sequined, beaded, etc.)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most popular Pellon interfacing for quilters?

SF101 Shape-Flex is the most popular for quilting applications. It’s a light fusible woven interfacing ideal for tote bags, quilted accessories, and backing quilt binding strips before pressing.

Can I use heavy interfacing on quilting cotton?

You can, but heavy interfacing will stiffen the fabric significantly and make it feel like cardboard. Use light interfacing (SF101 or 906F) for quilting cotton applications.

What is the difference between woven and non-woven interfacing?

Woven interfacing (like SF101) has grain lines like fabric — it moves with the fabric and produces a more natural, drapey result. Non-woven interfacing (like Décor-Bond) is stiffer and doesn’t have grain, producing a firmer result used in bags and structured projects.

How do I fuse Pellon interfacing properly?

Use a dry iron at the temperature recommended on the Pellon label. Press — don’t slide — for 10–15 seconds per section. Allow to cool before handling. Always fuse with the adhesive side (rough side) against the wrong side of the fabric.

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