February 2023 Fusible Thread
I am a big fan of raw edge applique but I have to admit there are quilt designs that cry out for needle turn applique. I recently came across a product that makes each of these techniques less scary for the beginner and easier for anyone. Iron ‘n Fuse thread by Wonderfil is a 40 wt fusible vinylon thread that can be used to “restrict the movement” between fabric layers. The thread’s ability to hold fabric in place takes the worry out of maintaining exact placement as we sew the edges of our applique, whether by machine or by hand.
Iron ‘n Fuse thread is available in one color: white.
Here are the steps to using Wonderfil Iron ‘n Fuse thread to applique your fabric:
- Wind a bobbin with Iron ‘n Fuse thread as you would normally.
- Use any thread that can be seen easily on the top of your fabric in the needle.
- Sew around your applique 1/8″ from the edge. Stitch length will not matter.
- Place your applique fabric on the background fabric and..using a pressing sheet… fuse with an iron. I prefer to iron front and back. Let cool.
- Easily remove the top thread.
- Fuse once more if needed. As Iron ‘n Fuse thread melts, the upper thread will be released.
- Your applique is now securely fused to your background fabric and you are ready to sew by machine or by hand. Applique pieces can be lifted, repositioned and refused if desired.
Using Iron ‘n Fuse thread to make double-fold binding easier:
- Place Iron ‘n Fuse thread in your needle and in the bobbin.
- Align the edges of the binding with the edges of your TOP and sew.
- Turn the folded binding to the back of the quilt and fuse with an iron. Let cool.
- Change your top and bobbin threads.
- Stitch the folded edge of the binding on the front of the quilt. This line of stitching will be sure to catch the binding on the back if you made your binding wide enough.
- What could be easier? NO hand sewing needed!
Of note:
- Ideal as a bobbin or top thread in your domestic machine or serger. **Remember to use a pressing sheet if using Iron ‘n Fuse thread as your top thread.
- Using a zigzag stitch or wide stitch will increase the sticking power.
- Use an 80/12 machine needle or a #10 sharp for hand basting.
- This thread can also be laid on the fabric.
- Used in the bobbin, Iron ‘n Fuse thread is ideal for applique, lining up mitered corners, lining up striped fabric and zippers.
- I purchased Wonderful Iron ‘n Fuse thread through Amazon.
Tip: Store your fusible thread and bobbin separately so as to be able to identify them easily.
February 2023’s BOM is the perfect project to test drive Iron ‘n Fuse thread by Wonderfil. It will soon become one of your true loves!