Here are some tips for quilting, embroidering, and fusing GlitterFlex in the hoop using battilizer.
Last week’s blog discussed embroidering and fusing GlitterFlex on quilted blanks. I tried quilting the block first, then adding GlitterFlex.
When I refer to battilizer here, it means a combination of stabilizer and batting. That is different from the brand name Battilizer from Hoop Sisters (no affiliation), which is also a combination of stabilizer and batting.
The battilizer I tried is an Inspira product called In-R-Form, now marketed under the Bosal name. It is foam encased in stabilizer. I was interested in not only the quilting component but also how it worked with GlitterFlex.
Here are some of the things that I learned:
Even though it is polyester, you can iron the foam to remove wrinkles. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions.
It quilts quite nicely, even without the use of traditional stabilizer. It also does not shrink.
Float battilizer in the hoop or use a magnetic hoop and be sure to add a basting stitch to secure fabric to the battilizer.
I used my Snap Hoop Monster with a slight modification. Normally, the hoops hold quilting cotton and regular stabilizer tight. Due to the battilizer thickness, I had to be very careful to not bump the hoop when removing it to trim GlitterFlex. The first time, I did slide the top hoop enough that stitch registration was off.
The second time, I added a layer of double-faced tape around the top of the bottom hoop and the bottom of the top hoop. It prevented the layers from shifting.
GlitterFlex fuses well over the quilting. I found that a higher than normal temperature and slightly longer fuse times were necessary due to the thickness.
Check back to see a project using Bonnie’s new Farm Buddies with battilizer!
Debbie Henry - May 17, 2021
Binder clips – thanks for the tip, Ann!
Debbie Henry - May 12, 2021
Vicki, it is interesting to work with and seems to work particularly well with projects that need some extra stiffness, like purses, placemats, and table runners. Thanks for reading!
Debbie Henry - May 12, 2021
Brenda, this project used the sew-in type. I also have some of the fusible to try. Thanks for reading!
Debbie Henry - May 12, 2021
Cinda, battilizer seems to be really good for projects that need some extra support, like wallhangings, placemats, bags, and the like. It is also used in quilts. Thanks for reading!
Debbie Henry - May 12, 2021
Judith, that’s right, you can float the battilizer under the hooped fabric. Use a basting stitch to secure the battilizer to the hooped fabric.
Ann McCormick - May 12, 2021
I have also had the problem with magnetic hoops. I use 2 to 4 binder clips on the outside ends of the magnetic hoop. It holds the “sandwich” of fabric tight.
Vicki fischer - May 12, 2021
This is the first I’ve heard of battilizer. I’ve been so wrapped up in quilting my blankets. Sounds interesting.
Brenda - May 12, 2021
Thank you for testing this for us! The Bosal foam is wonderful for bag making. Is this product fusible or sew in?
Cinda Wismar - May 11, 2021
I just bought this product but haven’t used it as of yet so I was very interested in what your suggestions would be in using it. Thank you for your tips!
Judith Diani - May 11, 2021
I only have a regular 5 × 7 hoop. What exactly does float mean? Do I secure battilizer plus fabric in hoop as normal or float battilizer under the hoop which contains my fabric?