When I'm working on embroidery for a new piece, I regularly ask the question: "What is the thing in your fabric?"
The answer is that this was the answer to my own question: "How can I easily transfer patterns on linen?"
Usually, my favorite transfer method is tracing because it's pretty basic, and doesn't require a lot of fancy materials. A regular pencil will even work! However, my favorite linen fabric has made tracing almost impossible. An iron-on transfer pencil or pen will work on this fabric, but I had mixed luck with their use.
I went to look for an alternative, and a friend instructed me on "the thing" that you see in my fabric. What you are seeing is a water-soluble stabilizer material that has made embroidered in certain fabrics so much easier.
Several companies make this product and there are several varieties. The two main differences are that one comes only as a stabilizer and one with stacked off-backing as a stabilizer so that you can adhere it to your fabric. Some come in the yard or roll, others come in sheets.
Comes with pile of backing as my favorite type of sheet. These can be run through a printer, which makes the complicated pattern a breeze! Of course, you can also discover your designs on the elements in your own hands.
Tracing on Water-Soluble Materials
There is a stabilizer with no backing on the left and a stick-on type on the right. For this example, I'm tracing a little design by hand.
A ballpoint pen, fine tip permanent marker or soft-lead pencil will work for tracing. If you use a pen or marker, try to use a color that is closest to the color of the thread you are working with, as the ink can bleed a bit when you remove the material.
For the sticky backed type, I recommend trimming it around the design. Leave some room for a plain stabilizer.
How to Attach Stabilizer Before Embroidering
When stitching, best it on the hooped fabric with a few large stitches to hold the non-sticky material.
To keep the material from scratching, remove the backing and attach it to the fabric. Press it to help hold it.
Embroidering Through Water-Soluble Stabilizers
You usually sew through embroidery such as fabric and stabilizer.
A quick note about the sticky type of water-soluble stabilizer: Depending on the moisture and other conditions, you will find that it can clog your needles. Some people help rub some thread in their needles. I often have some felt or fabric on hand to remove it. Even with this issue, I still love using sticky stuff!
When your embroidery is finished, cut off any excess material and remove the basting stitches if you use them.
Soak Away the Stabilizer
Soak the finished embroidery in warm water. You should start dissolving the stabilizer now. If it doesn't close, rub it with your finger or try hot water. You can give it a final wash under running water.
Pat the embroidery with a towel to remove excess water, then dry it.
Linens, fabrics, felt or any other fabrics that are hard to find, you can just find your new preferred method and people will start to ask you about "that thing" in your fabric!
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