Enhancing Garment Structure and Quality with Interlining
In the textile and apparel industry, materials that support form, durability, and precision are essential to achieving high-quality results. One such material is interlining, a vital component used between layers of fabric in garments, bags, and various textile products. Though hidden from view, interlining plays a significant role in defining the finished look and feel of a product, providing structure, shape, and stability.
What Is Interlining?
Interlining is a textile layer inserted between the outer fabric and the inner lining of garments or other sewn items. Its primary purpose is to reinforce the fabric, maintain shape, and improve the drape and feel of the final product. Depending on its application, interlining can be sewn in or fused with adhesive through heat.
Interlining is widely used in a variety of products, including dress shirts, suits, jackets, collars, cuffs, waistbands, and even home textiles. Its versatility makes it an essential material in both fashion and functional design.
Types of Interlining
Interlining comes in various forms, each suited for specific functions:
Fusible Interlining: Coated with a thermoplastic resin on one side, fusible interlining bonds to the main fabric when heat and pressure are applied. It is commonly used in mass production due to its ease of application and reliable bonding.
Sew-in Interlining: This type is stitched into place rather than bonded with heat. It is often used for delicate fabrics that cannot withstand high temperatures or when a more flexible, traditional approach is preferred.
Woven Interlining: Made from woven fibers, this interlining type provides high strength and dimensional stability. It is typically used in high-end garments where precise structure and durability are important.
Non-woven Interlining: Manufactured by bonding fibers together through chemical, mechanical, or thermal processes, non-woven interlining is cost-effective and suitable for various everyday apparel applications.
Knit Interlining: This type offers elasticity and flexibility, making it ideal for stretch fabrics and garments requiring a softer feel and movement.
Functions and Benefits
The inclusion of interlining offers multiple benefits during garment construction and in the final product:
Shape Retention: Interlining helps garments hold their shape over time, especially in areas like collars and lapels where structure is essential.
Support and Reinforcement: It provides extra support to fabrics that may otherwise sag, wrinkle, or lose form, especially in lighter or more delicate materials.
Improved Appearance: By enhancing the fabric's surface smoothness and stiffness where needed, interlining contributes to a cleaner, more polished look.
Durability: Reinforced areas are less prone to wear and tear, increasing the lifespan of the garment.
Versatility: Interlining can be adapted to suit various fabrics, garment styles, and manufacturing techniques, offering flexibility across different product lines.
Considerations When Choosing Interlining
Selecting the appropriate interlining depends on several factors including fabric type, garment function, desired stiffness, and production method. For example, heavier fabrics like wool may require stronger woven interlining, while delicate silk may be better suited to a lightweight sew-in version.
It’s also important to test compatibility between the interlining and the main fabric to ensure consistent bonding, no bubbling, and no visible changes on the fabric surface after fusing.
Applications Beyond Fashion
While commonly associated with garments, interlining is also used in other textile applications. In home décor, it supports the structure of curtains, cushions, and table linens. In bag and accessory production, it provides shape and strength. Its usefulness extends across many industries due to its ability to reinforce fabric-based products efficiently and economically.