Decovil I I interfacing - how to stiffen a bag, sewing bags and accessories

Decovil I – Vlieseline


I’ve mentioned the Decovil I interfacing on my other blog – Zygzakiem. However, this is really an interesting and quite unique product, so it’s worth to look at it a little closer.

This is a non-woven interfacing that doesn’t fray and is tear-resistant. As the manufacturer describes, it has leather-like handle, and there really is something about it – in terms of the thickness as well as the look and feel of the fabric after applying the interfacing. At a first glance the interfacing doesn’t seem very rigid. It has a dense consistency, but it is soft and flexible. After fusing, however, it shows its real nature – it still remains flexible, but is much stiffer.

What distinguishes this interfacing from other products, is the effect it gives after applying (Decovil I is one side fusible). It fuses well and leaves the surface of your fabric really smooth, without any wrinkles and creases – it just looks professional. In addition, it remains smooth even when you bend it – it doesn’t create ugly “edges”, as most stiffeners do.

I really like the thickness of Decovil I too. In most cases, adding a little bit of volume to your fabric is a desired thing. Very stiff and flat interfacings do not look good in bags. On the other hand – thick, puffy interfacings create more home-made look which may not be something that you’re looking for. That’s why Decovil is perfect in this manner.

Sewing and usage

Decovil I is great for sewing bags, wallets, hats, belts, and other accessories. In most cases you will not use it on all of the pieces – only on main elements responsible for the shape of the bag or item that you’re sewing. It can be used to stiffen the bottom of a bag – if you’re not expecting super rigid form. I often use it when sewing flaps in bags – its thickness, stiffness and weight perfectly fit that task.

The interfacing is quite easy to sew through, but it doesn’t mean it’s easy to sew with. Add a few layers of fabric and sewing it will be a challenge. You definitely should trim the seam allowances off the pieces before fusing it. Turning it right side out through an opening in a lining, especially in smaller bags, may be impossible. When you can, place the interfacing inside your project at the end of your sewing process.
There are some ups and downs with this product, but the result is worth that extra work or effort during sewing. I do not use it very often, but so far I didn’t find any other interfacing that gives similar, unique effect.

Properties

Manufacturer
Vlieseline
Country of origin
Germany
Roll width
90 cm (35.5 in)
Composition
42% polyester, 35% viscose, 23% polyamide
Available Colors
beige
Weight
390 g/m2 (11.5 oz/yd2)
Thickness
1 mm (0.04 in)
Price per m2 (yd2)
$18.50 ($15.50)
Price per m (y)
$16.70 ($15.25)
Stiffness
7/10