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22. Stabilizers
Appropriate stabilizer is essential for embroidering most fabrics. Without stabilizer, fabrics
can slip even when they are hooped tightly. Using the proper stabilizer is directly linked to the production of
consistently high-quality embroidery. It is important to understand that many different embroiderers with
identical criteria may choose completely different stabilizer and topping formulas and still achieve successful
embroidery results. Experimentation and experience are essential in creating consistently high-quality
embroidery. New products are constantly being developed and introduced. Find the combinations that work
best for you.
Stabilizer is placed on the underneath side of a fabric before it is embroidered. It is also sometimes referred
to as interfacing or stabilizer. Depending on the material, stabilizer can:
Stabilize the material as it is being sewn
·
Provide support for the stitches after sewing is complete
·
Different stabilizer types provide varying levels of support.
·
Cut-away
Cut Away stabilizer is a woven or non-woven material that must be cut from the fabric after the embroidery is
complete. This type of stabilizer is used to support the embroidery on the fabric during and after the
embroidery process. It also prevents the fabric from stretching during embroidery.
Cut-away stabilizer is a great choice for knits or loosely woven materials. These materials tend to move and
stretch. The cut-away stabilizer helps to stabilize the material and support the stitches.
Cut-away stabilizer also has a softer feel to it. If the embroidery is going to eventually be against the skin
directly, consider using cut-away for a more pleasant experience for the wearer.
As the name implies, cut-away stabilizer must be removed by cutting it away with scissors after the
embroidery is complete. It is best to remove leaving ⅛ to ¼ of an inch edge.
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