The main difference between interlining and interfacing is that interlining is used between the outer fabric and the lining, whereas interfacing is used on the wrong side of a garment.
Interlining and interfacing are two types of fabrics dressmakers use for the inside of garments. Although they are not noticeable when you wear a garment, they have an important role. They help to maintain the shape and structure of the garment.
Key Areas Covered
1. What is Interlining
– Definition, Features
2. What is Interfacing
– Definition, Features
3. Similarities – Interlining and Interfacing
– Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Interlining and Interfacing
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Interlining, Interfacing
What is Interlining
Interlining is a fabric we use between two fabric layers in garments to support and reinforce areas of the garment and maintain the structure of the garment. It is usually found between the outer fabric and the lining. Interlining is usually not noticeable in a garment since it’s hidden between the layers. We can apply it to the fabric by either bonding/fusing or sewing. Some interlinings are even removable. We usually make them separate from the garment and attach them to the finished garment.
Unlike lining, which uses smooth fabrics like cotton and silk, interlining requires heavy and rigid fabrics. Canvas flannel and non-woven fabrics are two types of fabrics we can use for interlining. We can also add an interlining to a garment to add more warmth to it. Dressmakers usually add interlinings to the neckline, belt, and front portions of coats. They are often used in jackets, coats, and vests.
What is Interfacing
Interfacing is a fabric we use on the back side (unseen side) of a garment to make it stiffer. We usually sew or fuse the interfacing to the wrong side fabric to give it structure, shape, firmness, and support. Generally, we use it for places like cuffs, collars, waistbands, and pockets. We can even use underneath buttoned areas. There are various types of interfacing fabrics. There are two main types as fusible interfacing and sew-in interfacing. In addition, there are three main types of weaves as non-woven interfacing, woven interfacing, and knit interfacing. It’s important to choose the right fabric since it will have an impact on the final look of the garment.
Interfacing fabrics are available in various colours, but we mostly use white interfacing for garments. Moreover, they come in different weights and stiffnesses, as well. The weight of the interfacing should depend on the garment; the heavier the fabric, the heavier the interfacing it will need. Interfacings are usually available by the yard or metre from bolts, just like cutting fabrics.
Similarities Between Interlining and Interfacing
- Interlining and interfacing are two types of fabrics dressmakers use for the inside of garments.
- They are not noticeable when you wear a garment.
- They help to maintain the shape and structure of the garment.
Difference Between Interlining and Interfacing
Definition
Interlining is a fabric we use between two fabric layers in garments to support and reinforce areas of the garment while interfacing is a fabric we use on the back side (unseen side) of a garment to make it stiffer.
Location
Interlining is used between the outer fabric and the lining whereas interfacing is used on the wrong side of a garment.
Type of Fabric
Interlining is generally made from non-woven fabrics while interfacing can be made from both woven and non-woven fabrics.
Conclusion
In brief, interlining and interfacing are two types of fabrics dressmakers use for the inside of garments. The main difference between interlining and interfacing is that interlining is used between the outer fabric and the lining whereas interfacing is used on the wrong side of a garment.
Reference:
1. “A Guide to Interfacing Fabric.” Fabrics Galore.
2. Promith, Sahjad Ektedar. “What Is Interlining: Types of Interlinings.” TextileTuts, Sahjad Ektedar Promith, 12 Feb. 2021.
3. “Interfacing.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 29 July 2021.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Needle, wheel, singer, fabric, sewing, sewing machine, thread, art, precision, stitch, needlework” (CC0) via Pxhere
2. “Interfacing at hem” By Kellyhogaboom – (CC BY-SA 2.0) via Commons Wikimedia
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