USE OF STABILIZERS IN HIGH QUALITY EMBROIDERY
Backing is one of several specialty materials called “stabilizers” used by custom embroiderers to provide consistent, high quality embroidery. The proper selection and quality of these materials is critical, especially in high volume contract embroidery operations where variability in results is unacceptable. Backing serves two main purposes:
- To keep garment fabric from moving during stitching (it has to resist movement in all directions, even after a high number of stitches have been sewn).
- To add fiber density for all of the stitches in the design to hold onto (it adds structure and strength to the fabric).
Backing is available in many different types and sizes for different applications. The elasticity of the fabric is perhaps the most important consideration in selecting a backing, although aesthetic considerations and the way in which the garment will be used or worn also play into the decision. Below is a summary of the two main types of backing, along with primary characteristics:
| Cut-away Backing | Tear-away Backing | |
| Applications |
|
|
| Advantages |
smooth production and high quality results that retain design integrity after multiple washings |
away by hand)
|
| Disadvantages |
fabrics or embroidered articles where the backing is exposed (e.g., towels).
applications (e.g., baby clothing). |
|
In addition, there are many types of specialty backings including cap backings and mesh or “no show” backings that are appropriate for very specific applications. For example, mesh backing (which is a cut-away stabilizer) provides much of the stability of standard “cut-away” backings but is thinner and more translucent. This provides improved performance over other cut-aways when visibility of the backing or comfort against the skin is a problem. It is a strong choice for the current generation of performance fabrics.
Another family of stabilizers called “toppings” or Solvy is used on top of certain fabrics and with certain designs in order to prevent stitches from “sinking in”. They create a smooth embroidery surface that results in crisper definition of details in the work. Solvy is water soluble and is generally used with towels or fleece, as well as with designs that have small details and are sewn on loose-knit and/or elastic fabrics.
Suncoast Marketing employs a host of high quality stabilizers and can accommodate specific customer quality, aesthetic, and comfort needs by selecting the most appropriate materials for each project.
