The Ultimate Guide to Fusible Foam for Sewing
- Julie Robertson
- Aug 13
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 31
International Brands, Options & Expert Tips
Looking for that elusive stand-up-and-cheer structure for your handmade bags, organisers, and accessories? Fusible foam is your secret weapon! Whether you want crisp sides on a tote, a basket that never slouches, or a pouch with professional polish, this guide will help you choose the perfect fusible foam stabiliser—wherever you are in the world. It's time to banish floppy bags and bring on the structure!
What is Fusible Foam?
Fusible foam is a stabiliser made from lightweight polyurethane (PU) or polyester foam, usually sandwiched between soft fabric tricot for easy sewing. Unlike sew-in foam, fusible foam is coated with a heat-activated adhesive, which can be bonded directly to your fabric with an iron. This eliminates shifting, smooths out wrinkles, and creates a unified structure that is durable, resilient, and easy to sew.
Why Choose Fusible Foam?
Creates Professional Structure: Fusible foam gives projects their "stand-up" power and a crisp finish.
Easy to Use: Fuses with an iron so you can skip pinning and basting.
Wide Range of Options: Available in single-sided, double-sided, and various thicknesses.
Global Access: Most major brands ship internationally, with options in the US, UK, Europe, Australasia, and beyond.
Fusible Foam Comparison Table (International Brands)
This table offers a comparison of popular fusible foam products available worldwide.
All brands may offer other widths and thicknesses. Check product specifications in your region to suit your project's needs.
Other International Brands to Watch
Legacy Flex-Foam L-FF78 (Pellon rebranded) – Australasia, UK, Canada
Freudenberg Style-Vil (Europe) – Equivalent to Vilene Style-Vil, high abrasion resistance
Vilene / Vlieseline (UK/EU/AU/NZ) – includes various foam and stabiliser products for bags
Foam Interfacing by Sunkiss Textiles, Victorian Textiles, and others – Australasian Brands
Picking Your Perfect Foam: What to Consider
Type of Project: For stand-up bags, baskets, and organisers, opt for thick and firm foams (Bosal, Pellon, Soft and Stable). For smaller pouches and accessories, lighter foams (Vilene Style-Vil, Fast2Fuse) may suffice.
Machine Compatibility: Most fusible foams are compatible with domestic machines; thick foam may need a walking foot or jeans/90/14 needle.
Fusible vs. Sew-in: Fusible is more convenient, especially for quilters and bag-makers seeking crisp lines. Sew-in versions (Soft and Stable, Style-Vil Sew-in) offer more flexibility and are easier to wash, but require more pinning.
Availability: Some brands (Pellon, Bosal, ByAnnie) are easier to source in North America, while Vilene and Matilda's Own dominate in Europe and Australasia.
Price & Width: Larger rolls might be better for big projects, but check the cost per unit area. Wider options (Matilda's Own, Bosal 58" or 148cm) minimise waste.
Colour Choices: Black and white options (ByAnnie's, Bosal) help avoid see-through in light or dark fabrics.
Things You Might Forget (But Should Know)
How to Fuse: For best results, always use a damp pressing cloth, medium iron temperature, and allow fabric and foam to cool while flat.
Turning Projects: Thicker foam = bulkier seams; trim seam allowances and test on a scrap.
Washing Bags: Foams are machine washable, but heat and agitation can affect their longevity and shape—spot cleaning is best.
Creasing: Fusible foam can crease during shipping or folding. Steam and weight will usually fix this, but permanent creasing is possible, especially in cheaper foams.
Eco Options: Most foams are synthetic, but recycled and eco-foam options exist, especially in the EU (Freudenberg, BASF/Covestro supply chain).
Final Thoughts
Do you know of another brand that you would recommend? Leave a comment below letting us know the product's name, what country it's found in, and where to purchase it. Thanks!
Personally, I think it comes down to personal preference. Marketing aside, it's up to you to try a few and see what best suits your projects and sewing machine.
There's never been a better time to try fusible foam, with so many durable, fuss-free options available worldwide.
