My Foam Interfacing Isn't Fusible - What Can I Do?

If the foam stabiliser you want to use isn't fusible, don't worry - you don't necessarily need to find a different one.

My favourite foam stabiliser, ByAnnie's Soft & Stable, isn't fusible either! I generally prefer to fuse foam stabiliser to the exterior of my bags, so I use fusible web to turn it into my own fusible foam.

Why I prefer fusing my foam

Fusing the foam to the exterior fabric makes the fabric and stabiliser behave more like a single layer while you're constructing the bag. I find this gives me a neater result and makes everything easier to handle during sewing.

Watch me do it on YouTube

I have a video showing exactly how I turn regular sew-in foam into fusible foam if you prefer video tutorials, otherwise just keep reading:

Watch on YouTube: Make Your Own Fusible Foam →

How to make sew-in foam fusible

Cut your foam stabiliser and fusible web to the size required for your pattern piece. First, fuse the fusible web to the foam, then allow it to cool completely.

Once cool, remove the backing paper from the fusible web and fuse the foam to the wrong side of your exterior fabric. I usually use clips to hold my foam in place after placing the now fusible foam on my fabric, that way I can flip the whole thing over and press from the fabric side, without worrying the foam stabiliser will become un-centered as I turn it. 

The exact heat and pressing method will depend on the fusible web and exterior fabric you're using, so follow the manufacturer's instructions for your fusible web and always test on a scrap first if you're working with an unfamiliar material.

A little note about vinyl and faux leather

If you're using vinyl or faux leather, the method can be a little different because you don't want to apply an iron directly to the exterior.

I've made a video showing how I work with vinyl and attach the foam or other stabiliser without damaging the exterior material:

Watch on YouTube: Interfacing Vinyl with Foam or Fusibles →