Double-sided Fusible Tape

Definition and Overview

Double-sided fusible tape is a narrow tape that bonds on both sides when heat and pressure are applied. It is used by placing it between fabric and fabric, or fabric and interfacing, for pre-sewing positioning, edge reinforcement, and partial bonding.

Unlike adhesive tape with adhesive on only one side, it bonds to the materials on both sides being joined. Because its bonding method and wash durability differ from ordinary office double-sided tape, choose one whose bonding conditions are specified for apparel use.

Areas of Use and Role

It is used for temporary fixing and shape stabilization in areas prone to shifting during sewing, such as the front edge, facing, collar and pocket edges, and hems. Because it can be fixed before sewing small hardware, it is also useful when you want to reduce damage to the textile caused by pins or basting.

When used on cut edges that are likely to stretch, its resistance to stretching also helps suppress dimensional change. However, fixing areas that require strong stretch may interfere with stretch during wear.

• Preventing shifting at facings and front edges
• Partial fixing around necklines and armholes
• Temporary fixing of pocket openings, hems, and folded edges
• Areas where interfacing or reinforcing fabric is partially bonded

Types and Differences by Cutting Direction

Tapes for preventing stretch are divided into straight, half-bias, and bias types depending on how they are cut relative to the grain. Straight cuts help suppress stretch, while bias cuts conform more easily to curves, though they may allow stretch depending on the direction.

Bonding specifications include one-sided bonding, double-sided bonding, and sew-in types without adhesive. Double-sided fusible tape is intended for applications that bond both the front and back sides. Conformability to curves, thickness, and the base material, such as woven, knitted, or nonwoven, vary by product.

How to Choose and Precautions for Bonding and Sewing

Choose the width according to the area you want to fix and the seam allowance width. If it is too wide, stiffness or the outline of the bonded area may show through the surface; if it is too narrow, sufficient holding power may be difficult to achieve. Also check compatibility with the outer fabric's thickness, structure, and stretch.

For bonding, it is important to follow the conditions for temperature, time, pressure, and cooling. Before full production, test on the same fabric to check for insufficient bonding, peeling, bleed-through to the outer fabric, fading, or changes in texture.

During sewing, if the tape edge continues to overlap the needle penetration line, it may increase the load on the needle and thread and cause stiffness around the needle holes. Consider placement within the seam allowance, the needle penetration line, and the flexibility required after sewing in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are double-sided fusible tape and stretch prevention tape the same?

No, they are not the same. Stretch prevention tape is classified by its purpose of suppressing stretch at fabric edges, and there are also one-sided bonding and sew-in types. Double-sided fusible tape is the name for a bonding specification that joins both sides, and it may also be used for stretch prevention applications.

Is it okay to bond it with an iron only?

You can make prototypes with a household iron, but if the set temperature, pressing time, or pressure is insufficient, it may cause peeling. Check whether a pressing cloth is needed at a temperature that will not damage the outer fabric, and confirm the appearance and wash durability after bonding with the same fabric and process as production.