What is Decovil?
Decovil I and Decovil Light are a non-woven iron-on interfacing, perfect for bag making. Fusible on one side with a flexible, leather like feel and movement, both are non-fraying and resilient and are resistant to bending and tearing. They are also dimensionally stable, easy to sew through and holes for bag locks etc. are easy to punch.
Decovil can be used with either synthetic or natural fabrics and is machine washable.
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What’s the difference between Decovil I and Decovil Light? What do you use them for?
Decovil I (Heavy)
Decovil I (Heavy) is a thicker, slightly heavier alternative to the Decovil Light. In bag making it is used for extra stability in bags, bag bottoms and bag flaps and wallet exteriors or for smooth sturdy structured sides, like the Laney Jane Handbag below. (Pattern by Janelle Mackay of Emmaline Bags).
Decovil Light
Decovil Light is a slightly thinner, more flexible version of Decovil 1. Use this for adding extra stability to a bag. For instance, if your exterior has cotton panels which are foam lined the Decovil light will help it keep its line and structure.
Another particularly good use for Decovil Light is to eliminate an unwanted slouchy look when you are sewing with soft leathers, like deer skin or faux leathers that already have some body but not enough to maintain the structure.
How to store Decovil
Decovil can be stored either rolled or folded. Any creases will disappear when the interfacing is correctly fused.
How to fuse Decovil
General Directions:
- Place the interfacing with the coated side on the wrong side of the fabric.
- Next, cover with a damp cloth and press the iron carefully for about 6 seconds, step by step over each area.
- Allow the pieces to cool flat for around 30 mins to enable the adhesive to set properly.
Note: Any creases remaining after pressing will disappear as the interfacing and fabric cool.
Always do a small test fuse before you start your main project.
How to use and sew Decovil
Decovil is easy to sew through which is useful when attaching straps, strap anchors etc.
However, when fusing to an exterior bag panel or a lining, it is generally advisable to cut the decovil pattern piece minus the seam allowance. Decovil remaining in the seam allowance will make the seams too bulky and is difficult to cut out afterwards. (Impossible if you have fused it to the edges).
Many patterns will provide a separate pattern piece for Decovil when they recommend its use.
Alternatively, depending on your pattern, you may be able to slip the Decovil pieces in between the exterior and lining after sewing. If they sit nicely nested, no fusing is necessary.
I recommend always following the directions of the pattern designer.
