I fused interfacing to my entire jacket front and it shrunk. How can I prevent this?
Gloria S.,
e-mail
Be sure to thoroughly preshrink the fashion fabric. If the fabric is to be dry-cleaned, have the cleaners preshrink it for you. It's helpful to steam press it after preshrinking.
It's also a good idea to preshrink fusible interfacing to prevent it from drawing up when fused. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions. If you don't have specific directions, fold the interfacing and place in a sink full of hot tap water. Let it soak until the water cools. Gently squeeze out the water and then blot out the excess in a towel--don't wring or twist the interfacing. Unfold the interfacing and lay it flat or hang over a shower rod to dry.
Another option is to fuse the interfacing to the fashion fabric before cutting out the pattern pieces. The only drawback to this method is each piece will be interfaced to the edge, which could make for stiffer and bulkier seams.
