I've had a lot of success with this stuff:
I found it at Joann. About $11 for 20" x 3 yards. It's transparent, so you can trace your design. I like to use a ballpoint pen, as marker (even permanent) tends to smear.
I have found its best not to have any straight corners; cut your shape in more of a circle or shape with rounded corners and then iron using medium heat and no steam. Iron for about 5 seconds and check to see if the stabilizer and fabric are fused. If not iron a few more seconds until fused.
I don't usually use a hoop to stitch knit, because I feel like I have better control without one. Totally Stable isn't fool proof. If you pull too much it will release from the fabric. I learned simply by trial and error. Be sure to use a sharp needle and take your time.
To remove Totally Stable, peel it off. But be really careful around your stitching or you'll pull out the stitches. I think it works best to hold an area of stitches with my left thumb and forefinger and then carefully tear away the stabilizer. I use tweezers to remove any small pieces that stick under the stitches.
This is a really helpful product you've shared. I resorted to using a piece of paper recently on which I'd printed what I wanted to embroider. That was a disastrous way to do it so your idea is wonderful news to me.
ReplyDeleteHey-
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun blog you have. You'll be in my bookmarks!
April
www.suaviloquy.blogspot.com
Okay, I'm writing this one down! I have gobs of wool and I'd like to do embroidery on some of it, but NEVER could figure out how to get my pattern onto it....I think this just might be the ticket!!!
ReplyDeleteYou are a godsend!!!
This is very very cute. Helpful too, thanks.
ReplyDeleteAmanda
http://myonlysunshine.typepad.com
I just discovered your adorable blog, but I will definitely be back in the future! I love seeing what others do with embroidery.
ReplyDeleteI wanted to add one tip to this: if you can't find stabilizer at the craft store, another good (and far cheaper) option is freezer paper from the grocery store (it has paper on one side, and a thin plastic coating on the other). Draw your design on the paper side, place the plastic side against your fabric, and iron for a few seconds. It works just like the stabilizer that is made for stitching.