This week I attended the semi-annual Craft and Hobby Association trade show. I’m not a newbie to CHA, but this was the first time I’d been able to attend the summer show and it was the first time I’ve been able to attend in my own backyard – they had the summer show in Las Vegas this year! There was lots to see, and more that I will share, but the thing that thrilled me to the bottom of my fabric-loving heart was the new Steam-a-seam.
Manufactured by The Warm Company (makers of Warm & Natural Batting and Insul-Bright, among other things), Steam-a-seam compares to Heat-n-Bond and Stitch Witchery. It is a lightweight fusible that is often used in applique. If you’re a fan of Steam-a-seam, you’ve probably been hoarding your last scraps, because for the last few months it was not to be found. There may have been a black market for steam-a-seam, and finding a forgotten yard or package in the back of the sewing closet was better than finding a $20 in the wash. There was a manufacturing issue that interfered with production, so no new Steam-a-seam was coming onto the market.
When talking to the gals at The Warm Company booth, I learned that the issue was not with the product (the fusible), it was with getting the paper that backed the fusible. Steam-a-seam has a paper backing on one side and Steam-a-seam 2 has a paper backing on two sides. Without the paper, they couldn’t complete the production.
Like most great companies, The Warm Company turned a challenge into an opportunity and found an even BETTER paper for their Steam-a-seam. The old paper was similar to parchment paper. This new paper is more similar to freezer paper. Whereas the old paper peeled off the tacky surface of the fusible and then would not re-adhere, the new paper can be peeled away and then re-attached because the shiny surface welcomes back the adhesive!
The new product is being manufactured and is arriving at distributors – from there it will make it to your local retailers. Look for it soon, and get ready for a fall and winter filled with applique projects!
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