How to Cut Embroidery Backing

Keep your seam ripper very sharp.

Embroidery backing or stabilizer is placed behind fabric while it is being stitched on an embroidery machine. Backing keeps the material stabilized and keeps it from shifting while being sewn. These backings come in many different thicknesses, colors and materials. Cut-away embroidery backing is used on projects where the back of the fabric is not visible. The backing surrounding the design is "cut away" when the embroidery is complete. This type of backing is commonly used on knits and other fabrics that may stretch during stitching.

Things You'll Need

• Embroidery backing
• Scissors
• Embroidery hoop
• Fabric
• Embroidery machine
• Seam ripper

Instructions

1. Cut your backing with scissors to fit your embroidery hoop. Measure out enough backing so that your piece will fit into your hoop with an inch to spare around each side.

2. Place your fabric on top of the backing and place in your embroidery hoop. Make sure your fabric and backing are smooth and taught in the hoop, and follow the directions for your embroidery machine.

3. Embroider your design onto the fabric.

4. Remove the embroidery hoop from the machine. Flip the hoop over so it is face down on a flat surface.

5. Take the seam ripper and make a small hole in the backing close to the stitching with the point. Take note not to rip a hole in the fabric.

6. Place the seam ripper ball end down in the hole. The seam ripper should be positioned so the ball is between the backing and the fabric and the pointed end is on top of the backing.

7. Push the seam ripper around the edge of the design's stitching cutting the backing as you go. This makes a clean edge around the design.

References

• Sewing & Craft Club: Embroidery Stabilizer Guide
• Thread Art: Embroidery Stabilizer Backing