If you have ever watched videos on how rhythmic gymnastics leotards are made, you have surely noticed a detail that sparks a lot of curiosity.
A kind of paper appears over some fabric, an appliqué is drawn, ironed on, cut out, ironed again onto the leotard, and, as if by magic, the piece is perfectly positioned before being sewn.
It is a technique widely used by designers around the world to achieve clean, precise, and perfectly placed appliqués.
What is that paper actually called?
What is fusible interfacing for appliqués?
Although many people simply call it "adhesive paper," it is actually a fusible interfacing for appliqués.
It can also be found under other names:
- Fusible fleece/interfacing
- Adhesive interfacing for appliqués
- Fusible paper for appliqués
- Vlieseline (depending on the brand)
- Heat'n Bond Lite
- Steam-A-Seam
It is a thin sheet that incorporates an adhesive layer activated by heat. Its function is to allow a fabric appliqué to be temporarily fixed onto another surface before sewing it.
In the case of rhythmic gymnastics leotards, this technique greatly facilitates the assembly of complex decorations and prevents the pieces from moving or warping during sewing.
Why use this technique?
When working with stretch lycra, velvet, or delicate fabrics, it is common for appliqués to shift while we are placing or sewing them.
This can lead to:
- Crooked appliqués.
- Incorrect symmetry.
- Wrinkles.
- Deformation of the lycra.
- Imprecise finishes.
Fusible interfacing helps keep each piece exactly in its place until it is permanently sewn. That is why it is a widely used tool in professional tailoring.
Materials needed
- Fusible interfacing for appliqués.
- Lycra or fabric for the appliqué.
- Iron.
- Precision scissors.
- Base leotard.
- Sewing machine.
- Thread in the appropriate color.
Complete step-by-step
Step 1. Draw the design
Start by drawing the appliqué on the paper side of the interfacing. You can draw flowers, flames, leaves, geometric shapes, or thematic motifs. The cleaner the drawing, the easier it will be to obtain a professional result.
Step 2. Iron the interfacing onto the fabric
Place the adhesive side of the interfacing on the back of the fabric you will use for the appliqué. Apply heat with the iron for a few seconds.
Tips:
- Use medium temperature.
- Do not drag the iron.
- Press and lift.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
At this point, the adhesive is activated and bonded to the fabric.
Step 3. Cut out the appliqué
Once the interfacing is bonded to the fabric, cut it out by following the outline of the drawing exactly. This system allows for much more precise shapes than if we cut directly on the fabric.
- Use precision scissors.
- Cut slowly.
- Respect all design details.
Step 4. Remove the protective paper
When the piece is cut out, carefully remove the protective paper. As you do so, you will discover a thin adhesive layer on the back of the appliqué. This layer will allow it to be temporarily fixed to the leotard.
Step 5. Place the appliqué on the leotard
Place the appliqué exactly where you want it. This step is especially important in symmetrical designs or when several pieces must fit together. The great advantage is that the appliqué no longer moves constantly while you try to position it.
Step 6. Iron to fix it to the leotard
Once placed correctly, apply heat again. The adhesive layer will activate and fix the appliqué to the leotard. Now the piece will remain in place while you perform the final sewing.
Step 7. Sew the outline
Although the appliqué is already adhered, the work is not yet finished. The sewing is what guarantees the strength and durability of the finish.
The most common practice is to use:
- Narrow zigzag.
- Decorative zigzag.
- Appliqué stitches.
The stitching prevents the piece from peeling off with use, washing, or fabric tension.
What type of interfacing should be used on a leotard?
This point is very important. Not all interfacings are suitable for stretch garments. In rhythmic gymnastics, we must look for materials that are:
- Thin.
- Flexible.
- Lightweight.
- Compatible with stretch fabrics.
Interfacing that is too stiff can harden the area and reduce the elasticity of the leotard.
Tanitex Tips
- ✔ Always do a test first on a scrap piece.
- ✔ Use medium-high temperature without steam.
- ✔ Do not slide the iron; press and lift.
- ✔ Use precision scissors for small details.
- ✔ Always look for thin and flexible versions.
- ✔ Remember that the adhesive helps with placement, but the stitching secures the final result.
- ✔ For complex appliqués, place all pieces first and then iron the entire set.
Most common mistakes
Using an interfacing that is too thick
It can harden the leotard and cause it to lose elasticity.
Applying too much heat
Some lycras are heat-sensitive and can be damaged.
Not sewing afterward
The adhesive does not replace stitching.
Dragging the iron
It can deform both the appliqué and the lycra.
Conclusion
Fusible interfacing for appliqués is a simple yet extremely useful tool for achieving cleaner, more precise, and more professional appliqués.
It allows you to place pieces securely, avoids shifting during sewing, and greatly facilitates work on stretch fabrics.
That is why it is a technique so widely used by rhythmic gymnastics leotard designers all over the world.
And now that you know what it is called, how it works, and how to use it correctly, you will be able to incorporate it into your own designs with much more confidence.
🎥 See the technique in action
Do you want to see how this technique is applied to an actual leotard? Watch this video: