Before you begin the fusing process, however, you do need to prep the fabric. Fabric used with a fusible of any form should be pre-washed; finishes in the fabric may prevent the fusible from adhering to the fabric. You should also press the fabric and any detail (such as a hem) with an iron into place before using a fusible. Perhaps there is an item of clothing that you would like for the hem not to show. Some fabrics, however, are impossible to have a completely invisible hem when sewn because the stitching will show. Fusible tape is an alternative to stitching, making the connection invisible. It also can be used to create a small patch to repair a little tear in the fabric that is not on a seam. A narrow fusible tape is a great way to hold a turned edge (that wants to twist) in place when you are trying to sew decorative embellishments or topstitching. The weight of the fabric you are fusing will determine the weight of the fusible you want to use. A lightweight fabric such as a sheer fabric would use ultra-lightweight fusible tape. Do not use a heavyweight fusible; it may seep through the fabric, be visible, and look very messy. When using fusible tape, you need to follow a few steps. First, place the tape between the layers of fabric and press until the fusible tape melts, adhering the layers of fabric. Allow it to cool before moving the fabric so that the fusing sets up, rather than sliding while the fusible is still melting. It is important that you do not place your iron directly on the fusible tape. It will melt to the iron and leave a mess. If you want to fuse the tape to one layer of fabric at a time, use parchment paper on the non-fabric side of the tape. Fusible web is available by the yard or in sheets. Buying fusible web by the yard allows you to create a tape the width you want or fuse large pieces of fabric, such as when adhering an applique. Sheets of paper-backed fusible web can be traced or drawn on to create a shape. This allows you to fuse a larger piece of fabric and then cut out the desired shape (as with an applique). You can also mend a large tear using fusible webbing by creating a patch. Apply fusible web to the correct side of a piece of fabric that matches the fabric with the hole. Then place the webbed patch on the wrong side of the ripped fabric and iron to secure. Fusible adhesive is ideal for attaching appliques, lettering and designs to fabric.
