Fusible Batting
@Brooklyn Craft Company
@TheQuiltPatch
@Quilting Confections
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Fusible batting contains a heat-activated resin on one or both sides. When pressed with an iron, it permanently (or temporarily) bonds the fabric to the batting, completely eliminating the need for pins or spray. It is perfect for bags, placemats, table runners, and baby quilts.
Materials Needed:
- Fusible batting (single or double-sided)
- Quilt top and backing fabric
- Iron and ironing board
- Press cloth or Teflon pressing sheet
Tips for Success:
- NEVER touch your bare iron directly to the exposed fusible side of the batting! It will instantly melt a sticky mess onto your soleplate.
- Always read the manufacturer’s instructions for heat and steam settings, as they vary greatly by brand.
- Do not push or glide the iron like you are ironing a shirt. Press down, lift up, and move to the next section.
1. Identify the Fusible Side
- Feel the batting. The side with the fusible resin will feel slightly rough or bumpy, like tiny grains of sand. Double-sided fusible batting will feel rough on both sides.
2. Layer the Backing (If Double-Sided)
- If you are using double-sided fusible, lay your backing fabric wrong-side up on your ironing board. Place the batting on top, ensuring it is centered.
3. Press to Secure the Backing
- Using a press cloth or non-stick pressing sheet to protect your iron from any exposed batting edges, place the hot iron down firmly on the batting. Hold for the manufacturer’s recommended time (usually 3-5 seconds) to melt the glue, then lift and move to the next section.
4. Position the Quilt Top
- Flip the bonded backing/batting piece over. Place your pieced quilt top right-side up on top of the batting. Smooth it out from the center to ensure there are no wrinkles or bubbles.
5. Final Press and Cool
- Press the top layer just as you did the backing, applying firm, downward heat from the center outward. Allow the entire quilt sandwich to lay flat and cool completely before moving it; the bond sets firmly as it cools down!
Top FAQs for Fusible Batting:
Can I use steam with fusible batting? +
It depends entirely on the brand! Some brands (like Hobbs) recommend steam to help activate the resin, while others strongly recommend a dry iron to prevent the batting from shrinking during the fusing process. Always check the package directions.
How do I get melted fusible glue off my iron? +
If you accidentally touch the glue, don’t panic! Let the iron cool slightly, then use a commercial iron cleaner (like Faultless Hot Iron Cleaner) or gently rub a fabric dryer sheet over the warm soleplate to carefully wipe the sticky residue away.
Is fusible batting good for large bed quilts? +
While it is possible, fusible batting is usually recommended for smaller projects like table runners, wall hangings, and bags. Large quilts can be very difficult to fuse evenly on a standard ironing board, and the glue can make the finished quilt slightly stiffer than traditional batting.
