Stabilizer Basics

New machine embroiderers are always asking, "What stabilizer should I use?" Usually, they are overwhelmed by the variety of responses they get. One person loves a stabilizer that another person hates.

My advice is that a newbie should get three stabilizers. One cutaway, one tearaway, and one wash away. All should be light weight. That's it! No iron on. No heavyweight. No medium weight. No heat away. When a heavier weight stabilizer is needed, use multiple layers. When floating, use 505 adhesive, pins, or a tack-down stitch.

Why do I suggest this? Because it makes it a lot simpler for a newbie. I teach newbies that a tearaway should be used for wovens and a cut away for knits. Wash away is for topping. There's so much to learn and remember about machine embroidery. Sixty-eleven different types of stabilizers are sixty-eight too many.