Iron & interface
Pressing is what separates a garment that looks made from one that looks sewn. We compare irons, steam generators, hams and boards, plus fusible interfacing by weight and backing.
The standard firm iron-on interfacing for collars, cuffs and waistbands. One reference on every Amazon store we checked, sold as Vilene in the US.
The cloth that stands between your iron and a shine mark. One reference on every Amazon store we checked.
Best for: Wool, synthetics, dark fabrics and anything with a nap
The fusible padding used in bags, quilted jackets and structured pieces. One reference on every Amazon store we checked.
Best for: Bag panels, quilted jackets and anything that needs body rather than stiffness
The fusible interfacing that stretches in both directions, for knits and bias-cut pieces. One reference on every Amazon store we checked.
Best for: Knit facings, jersey plackets, bias-cut edges and soft tailoring
The medium-weight fusible interfacing for collars, cuffs and waistbands. One reference on every Amazon store we checked.
Best for: Collars, cuffs, plackets, waistbands and buttonhole areas on woven fabric
The firm, leather-handling fusible used for bag panels and structured accessories. One reference on every Amazon store we checked.
Best for: Bag bases and side panels, box corners, structured accessories
A foam interlining that gives padded structure and is sewn in, not ironed on. One reference on every Amazon store we checked.
Best for: Bags, cases, hats and anything that wants soft structure
A firm curved cushion for pressing darts, sleeve heads and necklines. One reference on every Amazon store we checked.
Best for: Darts, princess seams, sleeve heads, necklines and shoulder shaping
A narrow board for pressing sleeves and trouser legs open without creasing the other side. One reference on every Amazon store we checked.
Best for: Sleeve seams, trouser legs, cuffs, narrow tubes and small pieces