If you want a fusible that is not stiff, try Misty Fuse or Shade Fuse. These do not stiffen the fabric; however, you still need to sew over them to make them permanent for regular quilt use.

Stabilizer is different from fusible. Stabilizer is used underneath the background fabric when sewing an applique by machine -- especially when sewing the applique edges down with a satin stitch.

Thanks again everyone, If you ever come to Maine, this is one place you need to see. It is meant to look like a picture I took of Portland Headlight.
Thanks Candace, I looked Misty Fuse up on line and I am going to give it a try. I'm not happy with the stiffness of Heat n Bond. I would not want a quilt with that feel. It was going to be a sofa throw. Up here in Maine there is not many places left that sell fabrics and sewing stuff! I remember when sewing was cheaper than buying off the shelves. But it is so different now.

heat n bond "featherweight" is the lightest with a paper backing..Mistyfuse has no paper, it is just a webbing.

keeping fabric under glass will cause it to yellow, and rot faster!

Be sure to try Soft Shades too. I agree with you on not being satisfied with the big box store type fusibles. Even the lightest types aren't light enough. Of course 'windowing' the fusible will help wonders, but when you're dealing with the tiny pieces that overlap you want it light as a feather!

There is no such thing as cheating. Just test what you are using to color to make sure it can be washed (or make sure to tell the reciepient it can't be.)

I like to use a featherweight fusible interfacing.

not cheating at all--you created an art quilt. and they are beautiful framed. I don't see why you wouldn't gift them as they are. Your work is gorgeous, IMHO

Boy, you are talented! I love your pieces.

When I have to press seams under, to applique, I do it the easy way! You can use the Heat & Bond Lite or if you don't want the fusible, you can use freezer paper. Just trace and cut your shape, from the paper. Place it onto the wrong side of a piece of fabric and press (for freezer paper, put the shiny side against the fabric). Now cut the fabric around the shape, leaving about 1/4" - 3/8" extra. Clip any curved areas, ALMOST to the paper (leave at least a few threads' width, uncut). With the paper side down, CAREFULLY use the tip of your iron, to fold/press the edge of the fabric, over onto the paper. Press well (but do NOT slide the iron around on it!). If you use freezer wrap, peel off the paper, right before you begin stitching. If you use the fusible, just press the entire thing to background fabric, then applique around edges.

wonder under. is not as still a heat bond lite. nice job