The problem is definitely interfacing vs webbing. I bought lightweight interfacing and mediumweight webbing not realizing there was a difference other than the weight. I did a test with the mw webbing and the paper peeled off like a banana. Of course I couldn't peel it off on the interfacing because there was no paper to peel off. So this is how we learn, lol.
I was going to continue on with using the interface but decided it will be better to start afresh with the webbing. A bit frustrating but not the end of the world.
Thank you for your help!