Choosing the Right Interfacing and Stabilizer for Bag-Making: A Guide to Structure & Durability

In bag-making, choosing the right interfacing and stabilizer is crucial to achieve the structure, durability, and aesthetic you want for each project. Whether you’re crafting a lightweight tote or a structured handbag, understanding how different materials impact your design can make all the difference. Here, we’ll dive into some popular options covering their unique qualities, pros and cons, and best applications in bag-making.

1. Pellon SF101 Shape-Flex or Sew Woven (Woven Fusible Interfacing)

Characteristics:
Pellon SF101 and Sew Woven are woven, fusible interfacings made from 100% cotton, known for adding lightweight stability while retaining fabric drape. It's a go-to for adding subtle structure to lighter bag fabrics like quilting cotton.

Applications:
We recommend applying SF101 or Sew Woven to all quilting cotton pieces. SF101 or Sew Woven is also recommend anytime you're working with a fabric that has a subtle one way stretch. For example our pebble texture faux leather. 

Pros:

• Easy to apply and irons well onto fabric.
• Maintains the natural fabric feel.
• Adds lightweight support without bulk.

Cons:

• Not sturdy enough to give the bag shape.

2. Pellon 987F Fusible Fleece

Characteristics:
987F is a soft, lofty fleece with a fusible side, perfect for adding a padded feel to fabric. It adds a bit of structure and cushion, making it great for creating soft yet supported bags.

Applications:
Ideal for slouchy, soft-structured bags, fusible fleece can provide cushioning for quilting and make bags feel comfortable to carry.

Pros:

• Adds lightweight padding and softness.
• Fusible backing makes application easy.
• Enhances insulation for items like lunch bags.

Cons:

• Less rigid than other stabilizers; may not support heavy loads.
• Limited durability if used on high-wear areas without reinforcement.

3. Pellon 525 Decovil Light

Characteristics:
525 Decovil Light is a fusible interfacing is widley popular amongst bag-makers. It's flexible enough for bag exteriors. It’s tear-resistant, crease-resistant, and adds a leather-like handle, creating a professional look.

Applications:
Use Decovil Light for structured bags, wallets, or areas needing a clean, smooth finish. It’s ideal for bags that require a moderate amount of stability.

Pros:

• Adds professional-looking structure.
• Crease-resistant and maintains shape well.
• Easy to sew through although we recommend keeping it out of your seam allowances.

Cons:

• Pricier than lighter interfacings.
• May be too stiff for thin fabrics.

4. Pellon 523 Decovil Light Sew-In Stabilizer

Characteristics:
This is a sew-in version of Decovil Light, providing similar structure without the fusible side. It’s great for projects where fusible stabilizers aren’t suitable due to heat-sensitive fabrics.

Applications:
Perfect for bag exteriors, clutches, or areas needing extra support without fusible properties. Works well when layered with other interfacings for added durability.

Pros:

• Provides consistent support without fusible backing.
• Retains shape and durability.
• Ideal for non-heat tolerant materials.

Cons:

• More time-consuming as it needs to be sewn into seams.
• Requires precision to prevent shifting.

5. Pellon FF78F1 Flex Foam 1-Sided Fusible

Characteristics:
FF78F1 is a fusible foam stabilizer that adds substantial padding and firmness while remaining flexible. It’s soft, resilient, and helps bags stand up without additional support.

Applications:
Great for bags that need significant structure, such as camera bags, travel bags, diaper bags or backpacks. This foam stabilizer adds body without heaviness and is easy to sew.

Pros:

• Creates strong, cushioned structure.
• Lightweight and maintains flexibility.
• Fusible side makes it easy to attach to fabrics.

Cons:

• Can be challenging to sew through multiple foam layers. We recommend leaving it out of your seam allowances.
• Fusible surface may require careful ironing to avoid puckering.

6. Pellon FF77 Flex Foam Stabilizer

Characteristics:
FF77 is a sew-in foam stabilizer that offers the same firmness as FF78F1 but without the fusible backing. It’s versatile, soft, and durable, making it excellent for thick, structured bags.

Applications:
Ideal for structured camera bags, travel bags, diaper bags or backpacks and any design needing a resilient, padded shape without the risk of adhesive bubbling.

Pros:

• Adds substantial body and cushion.
• Soft yet firm, easy to shape.
• Works well in thick layers or with other interfacings.

Cons:

• Requires extra handling during sewing to prevent shifting.
• More difficult to attach without fusible properties.

7. Pellon 526 Decovil Heavy (1-Sided Heavyweight Fusible Stabilizer)

Characteristics:
526 Decovil Heavy is a heavyweight fusible interfacing designed for maximum firmness, ideal for structured, stand-up bags. It’s highly tear-resistant and crease-resistant, with a leather-like texture.

Applications:
Commonly used in bag bases to provide structure and prevent sagging, this stabilizer is also ideal for firm flap closures. It offers substantial firmness, making it perfect for bags that require a durable, professional finish.

Pros:

• High rigidity and excellent shape retention.
• Adds luxurious feel and thickness to fabric.
• Very durable for high-use areas.

Cons:

• Harder to sew through, especially in multiple layers. We highly recommend leaving it out of your seam allowances.
• Can be more challenging to turn the bag right side out.
• Best with heavyweight fabrics; may overwhelm lighter materials.

8. Pellon Peltex 71F One-Sided Fusible Stabilizer

Characteristics:
Peltex 71F is an ultra-firm stabilizer with a fusible side, providing maximum structure. It’s ideal for designs that require almost cardboard-like support while remaining flexible enough for sewing.

Applications:
Commonly used in bag bases to provide structure and prevent sagging.

Pros:

• Provides maximum support for rigid structures.
• Great for bag bases and firm panels.

Cons:

• Fusing the glue to fabrics can become challenging and be time consuming.
• Harder to sew through, especially in multiple layers. We highly recommend leaving it out of your seam allowances.
• Can be more challenging to turn the bag right side out.
• Not suitable for sections that require flexibility.

Summary Table of Interfacings and Stabilizers for Bag-Making

By selecting the right interfacing and stabilizer for your bag, you can bring out the best in each design, from soft and cushioned to rigid and structured. Experimenting with these materials allows for versatility and creativity, making each bag project both functional and beautiful!

Feel free to watch Melissa show examples of these interfacings & stabilizers in this video.