The Ultimate Guide to Machine Embroidery Stabilizers
Stabilizers can be one of the most confusing parts of starting machine embroidery. Tear-away, cut-away, wash-away, toppers — it’s not always clear which one to use or why it matters.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to choose the right stabilizer for your project, you’re not alone! In this post, I’ll walk you through the most common types, when to use each one, how to avoid common mistakes — and I’ve included a free printable cheat sheet and helpful videos to make it all easier!
What is a Stabilizer and Why Do You Need It?
Stabilizer is the foundation for your embroidery. It’s what keeps your fabric from shifting, stretching, or puckering during stitching. Think of it like the secret support system underneath your design — without it, even the most beautiful design can come out distorted.
Choosing the right stabilizer depends on:
Your fabric type (stretchy vs. stable)
Your design density (light or heavy stitches)
The look and feel you want after stitching
Let’s go over the five types I use most in my own embroidery business:
1. Tear-Away Stabilizer
Exactly what it sounds like — it tears away from the back of the design after you’re done stitching. It’s great for simple, low-to-medium density designs on sturdy fabrics.
Best for: Items that will not be worn and do not have stretch to them.
Examples: Backpacks, blankets, tote bags, & towels.
✅ Pros:
Easy to use and remove
Clean results without trimming
Great for quick, repeat projects like tea towels
⚠️ Watch out for:
Not enough support for stretchy fabric or dense designs
Can tear too close to your stitches if removed too aggressively
Pro Tip: Use a medium-weight tear-away for most projects. Hoop tightly and tear away gently to avoid pulling your stitches.
There is also a STICKY Tear-away stabilizer that I love to use for the “floating” method or with Durkee EZ Frames.
HERE IS THE TEAR-AWAY I USE: https://a.co/d/hvJc1vZ
HERE IS THE STICKY TEAR-AWAY I USE: https://a.co/d/fwZHqlp
2. Cut-Away Stabilizer
A permanent stabilizer that stays behind the design. It’s your best friend when stitching on anything with stretch because it keeps the fabric from distorting, even after washing.
Best for: Items that will be worn.
Examples: Knit fabrics like t-shirts, sweatshirts, baby onesies, etc.
✅ Pros:
Offers long-term support
Keeps designs crisp on stretchy or ribbed fabrics
Essential for dense or complex designs
⚠️ Watch out for:
Can feel bulky if the stabilizer is too thick and the items are thinner material. Substitute for a no-show polymesh.
Needs to be trimmed neatly around the design after stitching
Pro Tip: Pair cut-away with a soft fusible backing (like Cloud Cover) if the back of the design will touch skin.
HERE IS THE CUT-AWAY I USE: https://a.co/d/8TrJ919
HERE IS THE NO-SHOW POLYMESH I USE: https://a.co/d/geCKgnv
3. Wash-Away Stabilizer
Completely dissolves in water — no cutting or tearing needed. It’s perfect for heirloom-style embroidery, lace, and projects that need a clean finish.
Best for: Sheer fabrics, freestanding lace, or delicate projects where no stabilizer should remain.
Examples: Lace projects or towels.
✅ Pros:
Leaves no trace behind
Ideal for lace, appliqué, and sheer fabrics
Great for temporary use
⚠️ Watch out for:
Needs to be stored in a dry place — humidity can break it down
Not always strong enough for heavy designs unless doubled up
Pro Tip: Use heavy-weight wash-away for freestanding lace, and rinse gently under warm water or dab with a wet cloth.
HERE IS THE WASH AWAY I USE: https://a.co/d/bbgspWc
4. Water-Soluble Topper
This one’s not used under your fabric — it goes on top. Water-soluble topper prevents stitches from sinking into soft or fluffy fabrics. It gives your design a clean, sharp finish.
Best for: High-pile or textured fabrics.
Examples: Sweatshirts, towels, fleece, velvet, or minky
✅ Pros:
Makes text and satin stitches pop
Easy to remove with water
A must-have for towel embroidery
⚠️ Watch out for:
Won’t support a design on its own — always use it with another stabilizer underneath
Too much moisture can melt it before you’re ready
Pro Tip: Tear away the excess gently, then press a damp cloth over the rest to dissolve it — no need to soak the entire item.
HERE IS THE WATER SOLUABLE TOPPER I USE: https://a.co/d/c1aEcjt
5. Performance Stabilizers
Performance wear is stretchy, slippery, and often made from synthetics — which means it can be tricky to embroider. Performance stabilizers (often specialized cut-away) are designed to handle these unique fabrics without damaging them.
Best for: Stretchy materials with a polyester blend.
Examples: Dry-fit polos, performance polos, swimwear, or moisture-wicking materials
✅ Pros:
Specifically designed for moisture-wicking or activewear
Minimizes fabric distortion and needle damage
Helps stitches stay in place through wear and washes
⚠️ Watch out for:
Some are fusible — make sure you're using the right heat setting if pressing
Lightweight versions are best for activewear; don’t go too thick
Pro Tip: Float the fabric if needed, and always test on a scrap first — some activewear can be heat-sensitive or mark easily.
HERE IS THE PERFORMANCE STABILIZERS I USE: https://allstitch.com/search?q=PERFORMANCE+STABLIZER (SheerStitch & ProStitch - depends on the color garment and if you want a roll or pre-cut squares)
Final Thoughts:
Stabilizers may seem intimidating at first, but once you understand how they work, they become one of your best tools. The right stabilizer gives your design structure, support, and that polished, professional look!
Every embroidery project is a little different, so don’t be afraid to test, tweak, and take notes as you go. Before long, choosing stabilizers will feel like second nature.
Have questions about a specific project or fabric? I’m always happy to help — drop a comment or message me on Instagram @kathleen.embroidery!
HELPFUL VIDEO RESOURCES:
What stabilizer I use for Comfort Color T-Shirts - TikTok
What stabilizer I use for Performance Polos - TikTok
YOUR PRINTABLE CHEAT SHEET TO STABILIZERS:
Download below!
If you are downloading on a mobile device, click here to be redirected to a printable PDF version to print!