What is a facing and how does it work?
Facings are the pieces of pattern/fabric that sit on the inside of your garment. They are there to hide raw edges at necklines, armholes and waistlines. Facings are generally made of the same fabric as the outer layer though if you are using a heavier fabric i.e. on a jeans waistband, a lighter fabric can also be used on the inside. To add support the fabric and facing, apply interfacing to the facing.
Interfacing
Using the helpsheet to direct you toward the correct interfacing, the most important thing to consider when choosing the interfacing for your project is what’s it there to do?
Interfacing is the fabrics support. On a waistband it helps stop the waist from rolling or stretching out. You might prefer something slightly firmer for this. For a neckline or armhole it will also help give a crisp edge but you don’t need anything too heavy. Interfacing will reduce the risk of any edge from stretching when worn. On a facing that involves buttonholes and buttons it’s there to stabilise and support the fabric. Most of all you don’t want to use an interfacing that’s too heavy or crisp. Consider what it’s use is and the weight of the fabric you’re using.
In the video below I’m going to show you how we attach a facing and also how we reduce the risk of it rolling back towards the front. We talk edge stitching / understitching and how it can make such a difference to the finished edge.
Grab a cuppa…
