Here is a list of questions we have received related to sewing the Twig + Tale Wing Collection. We hope it will provide some guidance for those of you who are embarking on sewing a pair of wings.
Please feel free to ask questions about sewing wings by posting on the Twig + Tale Chat Facebook group - we're happy to help and we love to see what you're working on.
Interfacing
I can't find the recommended interfacing - will xxx interfacing work?
Unfortunately, interfacing can be a rather vast and confusing subject. Names and numbers vary from one country to another, and often the bolts of interfacing in fabric stores aren't labelled at all. The pattern specifies types of interfacing that have been tested and shown to give good results.
If you can't find one of the recommended products, look for something that has good body and rigidity - remember, it will play an important structural role in the wings. However, it still has to be pliable enough that you will be able to turn the wings right side out, so avoid the ultra-thick interfacing (there is some that is very rigid - almost like cardboard - this will be way too thick for wings). I have had the best luck asking for craft interfacing intended for bags and hat brims.
We have crowd-sourced a list of alternative interfacing options in our Twig + Tale Chat group on Facebook, based on location - you may find another option there. We've also included a video, which shows you how your chosen interfacing should behave.
I can't find heavyweight sew-in interfacing - what should I do?
It will work out just fine to use an extra layer of your heavyweight fusible interfacing instead - just don't fuse it to anything. Trace the stitch detail template lines onto the non-glue side of the interfacing.
More information on supplies for wings, including interfacing, can be found here.
Batting
How thick should my batting be?
A range of batting thickness will work for the wings - the pattern calls for anything from 5-20mm. Keep in mind that if you use a thin batting, the wings will have a "flatter" look and the quilting lines won't show up quite as much.
If your batting is thin, it works just fine to use multiple layers. I found 3 layers of thin poly quilt batting worked well for my wings.
What type of batting should I use - polyester or cotton?
When testing the wings, we found that polyester batting worked the best - cotton batting is heavier and had a tendency to weigh the wings down and cause them to flop. We normally prefer natural fibres, but this seems to be an instance when synthetic is better suited to the project.
Fabric
Can I use stretch fabric for my wings?
We haven't included stretch fabric in the recommended fabric list since it is undoubtedly more challenging to work with and we haven't tried it out. However, if you are an experienced sewist, used to working with knits, it may be possible. Interface the fabric well for extra stability. In general, stretchy, shiny, slippery fabrics are going to make wing sewing much more challenging.
Can I use a heavier fabric, such as denim, for the wings?
We don't recommend using anything heavier than a quilting cotton because there will be many layers to sew through at some points in the project - most home sewing machines will not be able to handle stitching through all of them. It may be possible to use heavier bits of fabric for the appliqué though.
Body
Do I have to add the body to the wings, or will they work without?
The body piece is completely optional - the wings will turn out fine without it.
Sewing Machine
Can I sew wings with a regular home sewing machine?
Yes, Wings can be sewn using most regular home sewing machines, however some particularly light-duty machines may have challenges with the layers. Using a new, sharp jeans needle can help immensely. Taking the time to trim seam allowances very well, as described in the tutorial, helps to reduce the bulk and thickness that your machine will have to sew through.
Feel free to ask any questions about wing sewing on the Twig + Tale Chat Facebook group - we're happy to help and we love to see what you're working on.
<Cover Image by Mieke Oosteven>
