Guide to Using Embroidery Stabilizers Part 1 The three most common types of stabilizers are: Cut-Away, Tear-Away,and Wash-Away These three groups have different weights of stabilizers. In Part 1 of this blog we will discuss Cut-Away. Stabilizer is very important for machine embroidery, it supports the fabric and keeps the fabric from puckering or stretching. The more stitches in a design the heavier the stabilizer should be. 1.) Cut-Away The most stable of the three stabilizers. Cut-Away can be used on any fabric type, but must be used when stitching on knits or stretchy fabrics. Trim access no closer than 1/4” to 1/2”
Heavy Weight Cut-Away - 25,000 or more. Will support the greatest number of stitches. Use for heavy fabrics.
Medium Weight Cut-Away - 15,000 to 25,000 Gives more support than a lighter cut away and less stiff that a heavy weight. For medium weight fabrics.
PolyMesh Cut-Away - 12,000 or less. Less shadow through the fabric. Soft and gentle against the skin. Available in White PolyMesh and a fusible form Great for baby items, children clothing and lightweight stretchy fabrics. Cut-Away is a permanent stabilizer that will remain sewn to the embroidery and will provide permanent support for the design, it also helps retain the design's shape after repeated washings. The stabilizer is a soft non-directional, non-woven cutaway made of 100% polyester.
Always correctly hoop your garments using the smallest hoop possible. The closer the sides of your hoop are to your design, the more stabilization your hoop will provide.
It’s a good idea to use an adhesive spray before hooping to keep the layers from shifting during the embroidery process and to make the item easier to hoop. The best way to really become educated about stabilizer is to experiment. Everyone has an opinion on which stabilizers are best, and you need to discover your own preferences. Ask your embroidery friends what they like to use and exchange ideas.
Cut-Way Stabilizers I use and recommend. These are sold on Amazon, and here are the links.
New brothread Cut Away Machine Embroidery Stabilizer Backing 8"x8" - 100 Precut Sheets - Medium Weight 2.5 Ounce - Fits 4x4 and 6x6 Hoops
https://amzn.to/3DOvnVd
Cut Away Stabilizer White 2.0 oz 12 inch x 10 Yard Roll. SuperStable Machine Embroidery Stabilizer Backing
https://amzn.to/3dKIDQg
Cut Away Stabilizer White 3.0 oz 15 inch x 25 Yard Roll. SuperStable Machine Embroidery Stabilizer Backing
https://amzn.to/3IM7BwT
****I get paid a small commission for purchases made through this link.****
These are really great cut- away stabilizers!
In Part 2 of Embroidery Stabilizer we will discuss Tear-Away Stabilizers.