cashs_mom

I'm about to start a purse from a Studio Kat Designs pattern. The pattern calls for ByAnnie's Soft and Stable. I've ordered the Soft and Stable but was looking for a more readily available substitute. My LQS carries Bosal In-R-Form and I did some research on the internet and found several references to Bosal being better for bags because it holds its shape better and is less on the soft side and more on the stable side. This purse will get some heavy use so I'd like something that would hold it shape well even though carrying a heavier load.I was just wondering what experience members here have had..

Thanks.

bakermom

I've used it and have been very happy with it.

cashs_mom

Which one?

GingerK

I use them both and find very little difference. I do not like the fusible Bosol. If it is going to get a lot of use, you may want to put a heavier bottom into your bag, either by sandwiching in a heavy interfacing or a removable base. Some people use a piece of plastic cutting board or placemat from the Dollarstore.

cashs_mom

Thanks Ginger. I was planning to put a solid removable bottom in the bag. I've found that helps them to retain their shape a lot.

What was it you didn't like about the fusible Bosal?

GingerK

You have to be very careful with the iron temperature. You also have to be extremely careful to just 'press' and not move the iron around. I found that sometimes left voids or uneven fusing. The one place I do like using it is for the straps. I usually make pieced straps--about 28 inches worth of 1 1/2 inch squares sewn together, then fused to a 1 1/2 inch wide piece of fusible Bosol. Then I take a 28 x 2 2/1 inch piece of coordinating fabric and sew down each side. Turn it around and topstitch. I hope the photo shows what I mean.

cashs_mom

Thanks Ginger. That's very helpful. Maybe I'll just stick with the Soft and Stable for this project and get some Bosal next time I'm at the LQS to experiment with.

bakermom

Sorry, I have used Bosal, I thought it would be awkward to use but it isn't.

cashs_mom

Thank you!

juliasb

I just learned something about both of these products. I have never used either but have put it into my list of things to ask for or purchase when the time comes.