The Ultimate Guide to Fusible Fleece

Ready to give your next sewing project a little extra snuggle and structure? Let's talk fusible fleece—single-sided fusible fleece to be precise! This is the only type of fleece I use in Sublime Stitchery patterns. This cosy hero adds just the right amount of padding and support to bags, pouches, quilts, and more! Sure, "fusible fleece" might sound technical, but finding the perfect one can make your creative journey smoother (and your finished projects even more fabulous).

But here's the fun part: not all fusible fleece is the same. Some glide through your sewing machine like a dream, while others might test your patience (and your needle stash!). The best fleece for you depends on your sewing machine's personality, the kind of project you're making (think: soft-and-flexible pouch vs. stand-up tote), and your own preferences—do you want a plush, pillowy feel or something with a bit more body?

And let's be real: availability and price matter, too. The "perfect" fusible fleece might not be stocked at your local shop, or it could stretch your budget more than you'd like. With so many brands and options (not all of them available everywhere), it pays to know what's out there and what will work best for you.

So whether you're a seasoned bag-maker or just fusible-fleece-curious, stick around! We'll break down the best fusible fleece options, helping you to choose the right one for your needs, and what to watch for before you buy. Let's add some plush perfection to your projects—fleece style!

Pellon Fusible Fleece: Why so Popular?

From where I stand, Pellon is probably the market's most popular single-sided fusible fleece. In Australasia, Pellon is marketed as Legacy. It is the same product and, in most cases, has the same number identifiers. At Sublime Stitchery, we offer several different types, depending on customer requirements. We stock both Pellon and Legacy products. Pellon's single-sided fusible fleece range offers varying loft (thickness), density (firmness), and structure. Here's how the single-sided fusible options compare:

What about options Worldwide?

If you're outside the US or want to explore other brands of single-sided fusible fleece, here's how leading international options stack up:

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Head out on your next fabric shopping trip with confidence. Our printable Resource Guide takes the guesswork out of choosing the right Fusible Fleece or Fusible Interfacing for your next project.

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✅ 10 popular sewing projects

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Why Fleece - not Foam?

Fusible fleece offers several key advantages over fusible foam in sewing applications, especially for projects where a softer, more flexible finish is desired:

• Easier to Sew: Fusible fleece is softer and less bulky than foam, making it much easier to sew through on most domestic machines. It rarely requires special needles or feet, and is less likely to cause skipped stitches or machine jams.

  
  

• Less Bulk in Seams: Because fusible fleece has a lower loft than foam, it creates less bulk at seams and corners. This makes turning projects right-side out simpler and results in a smoother, more professional finish—especially important for small or medium-sized bags, pouches, and garments.

  
  

• Gentle Padding and Flexibility: Fusible fleece provides a soft, padded feel with a gentle structure, making it ideal for projects that need cushioning without stiffness, such as quilted bags, placemats, and wearable items. In contrast, foam creates a firmer, more rigid shape that may not drape or move as naturally.

  
  

• Improved Stability Without Stiffness: Fusing fleece to fabric stabilises it, preventing shifting or bunching during sewing, but still allowing the finished project to remain flexible.

  
  

• Convenience and Speed: Fusible fleece is quick to apply with an iron, eliminating the need for pinning or basting layers together. This streamlines construction and saves time, especially on multi-layer projects.

  
  

• Better for Smaller Projects: Fusible fleece provides just the right amount of support for small and medium bags, pouches, and accessories without making the item overly stiff or challenging to handle, whereas foam is often best reserved for large, structured bags or organisers.

  
  

• Availability and Price: Fusible fleece is widely available and generally more affordable than foam, making it accessible for most sewists and suitable for a wide range of projects.

Other Considerations:

• Fusible vs Sew-In: Fusible options are iron-on and save time, but may not suit heat-sensitive fabrics.

  
  

• Fabric Weight: Match the fleece/interfacing weight to your fabric for best results.

  
  

• Project Type: Consider the end use—soft shaping for pouches, more body for stand-up bags or placemats.

  
  

• Still too Bulky: Consider trimming your Fusible Fleece so it is not within your seam allowance. This reduces bulk and can make sewing that little bit easier.

In summary, fusible fleece is the preferred choice when you want soft structure, easy sewing, and a flexible, padded finish. Your choice depends on your project's needs, your machine's capabilities, and your own preferences for finish and feel. I hope you find the right fleece for your project needs!

Legacy Fusible Fleece L-971F

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