Fabric and Stabilizer: Getting a Perfect Match
When manufacturers make fabric, they don't anticipate that anything is added to it. When we embroider on fabric, the weight and tension of the stitches adds stress to the fabric. Stabilizer, also called "backing," supports the fabric to eliminate or reduce the stress of stitches. Stabilizer supports the fabric during the embroidery process. And, it has a second important purpose, too. It supports the fabric after embroidery -- during everyday use, wash, wear, etc. Choosing the proper stabilizer for the fabric not only makes the embroidery work go smoothly, but also extends the life of the garment or item for years and years. Generally we use a medium-weight (2.5 ounce) cutaway stabilizer with most fabrics. This type and weight of stabilizer is sufficient to support most fabric types, from stretchy knits to lightweight quilter's cotton to terrycloth bath towels. A good-quality stabilizer will soften after a few laundry cycles -- it won't feel scratchy against the skin. Oftentimes we're tempted to use a tear-away or water-soluble stabilizer on items such as towels and fleece blankets, to make the backside look nice and neat. However, this isn't always the best solution. Use tear-away on terrycloth bath towels, and they'll come out of the dryer wrinkled and rumpled. Use tear-away on a fleece blanket, and the embroidery will "cup" and warp the fleece after a few days. When choosing stabilizer for fabric, think "short-term" as well as "long-term." Which stabilizer will support the fabric during the embroidery, and after? Over the past several years we've published dozens of Fabrics 101 articles that demonstrate which stabilizer performs best for different types of fabrics. You'll find a list of those articles here. We're always adding more, so check that list often, and send ideas for new topics to stitch@emblibrary.com. There is also a handy Fabric and Stabilizer Matching Guide that you can download or print for a quick reference when stitching. You'll find that guide here. If you'd like additional assistance after reviewing those articles, please send an email to stitch@emblibrary.com.