Are you just learning how to use your new embroidery machine at home? Do you know which stabilizer to use with which fabric to get the best results? Here's a few hints and tricks of the trade to help you make your embroidered projects look as professional as possible.

First, know which type of stabilizer to use with which type of fabric. If you're going to embroider a stretch fabric, like a golf shirt, make sure you use "cutaway" stabilizer. It's the paper-like material that you see on the back of many embroidered items. It won't tear, and it won't wash out.

Cutaway comes in different weights, but you probably want to just start out with a medium weight; it works well on single and double knits. Hoop the stabilizer and your fabric, taking care not to stretch the material. Embroider your design, and cut away the excess stabilizer fairly close to the design.

If you're embroidering a non-stretch fabric, like towels, you can use a "tearaway". Just like the name implies, once you've finished embroidering your design, simply tear away the excess stabilizer from the back of your project.

If you're working with a fabric that has a nap like velvet or fleece, you'll also need a "washaway" stabilizer (also called water soluable) on the top, to keep your stitches from sinking into the nap. Hoop your tearaway or cutaway and your fabric. Then cut a piece of washaway slightly larger than your design. Use a temporary spray adhesive like KK2000 to stick the washaway to the top of the fabric. Spray the adhesive on the stabilizer (not on your fabric!) and finger press the washaway on the top of area to be embroidered.

Embroider your design, then pull off the washaway by hand. Any excess stabilizer on the top will dissolve in water.

Carol is a professional embroiderer and is the owner of Just For Baby Gifts.

Source: www.isnare.com