How to Embroider on Towels and Other Thick Fabrics with Your Machine

Introduction

Embroidery on thick fabrics can be a challenging task, as the thickness of the material can make it difficult to get the needle and thread through.

However, with the use of a machine, this process can be made easier and more efficient. In this article, we will explore the advantages of using a machine for embroidery on thick fabrics, as well as the importance of proper technique for successful results.

Preparing the Towels and Fabric

To ensure a successful embroidery on thick fabrics, proper preparation of the towels and fabric is key. Here are some important steps to follow:

  1. Choosing the right fabric and stabilizer: When selecting a fabric for embroidery, it is important to choose a material that is thick and sturdy enough to withstand the weight of the embroidery. Fabrics such as denim, canvas, or towels made of terry cloth or microfiber are great choices. Additionally, using a stabilizer will provide extra support to the fabric and prevent it from shifting during the embroidery process. Choose a stabilizer that matches the weight and texture of your fabric.
  2. Proper washing and drying of towels and fabric: Before starting the embroidery, it is crucial to wash and dry both the towels and fabric. This step helps to remove any sizing, dirt, or chemicals that may affect the embroidery process. Be sure to use a mild detergent and avoid using fabric softeners or bleach, as these can damage the fibers of the fabric.
  3. Hooping the fabric and stabilizer together: Hooping the fabric and stabilizer together is an important step in ensuring that the fabric is secure and doesn’t move during the embroidery process. To hoop the fabric and stabilizer together, place the stabilizer on the underside of the fabric and place them both inside the embroidery hoop. Ensure that the fabric is taut and does not have any wrinkles or folds. Tighten the hoop screw to secure the fabric and stabilizer in place.

III. Setting up Your Machine for Embroidery

After preparing the towels and fabric, the next step is to set up your machine for embroidery on thick fabrics. Here are some important steps to follow:

  1. Choosing the right needle and thread: When embroidering on thick fabrics, it is important to use a needle and thread that can easily penetrate through the material. Choose a needle with a sharp point and a larger eye, such as a size 90/14 needle. Use a thread that matches the weight of your fabric and stabilizer.
  2. Selecting the appropriate embroidery design: Selecting an appropriate embroidery design is essential for a successful embroidery on thick fabrics. Choose a design that is not too dense or intricate, as this can cause the thread to break or the fabric to pucker. Also, consider the size of the design in relation to the size of your fabric.Embroidering on Towels | Brother | Blog
  3. Adjusting the machine’s settings for thick fabrics: Adjusting your machine’s settings for thick fabrics is crucial for a successful embroidery. Adjust the tension of the machine to prevent the thread from breaking or looping. Also, reduce the speed of the machine to prevent the fabric from moving or bunching up. Finally, increase the stitch length to allow the needle to easily penetrate through the thick fabric. With these adjustments, you can achieve a beautiful and professional-looking embroidery on thick fabrics.

Embroidering on the Towel or Fabric

Once your machine is set up and the fabric is hooped, it’s time to start the embroidery process. Here are some important steps to follow:

  1. Starting the embroidery process: Before starting the embroidery, it’s important to ensure that the machine is threaded correctly and that the embroidery design is loaded onto the machine. Begin by slowly stitching the outline of the design to ensure that the fabric is secure and the design is properly aligned. Once the outline is complete, continue with the rest of the embroidery.
  2. Monitoring the embroidery process: While the machine is embroidering, it’s important to monitor the process to ensure that the fabric is not shifting or puckering. Check the tension and speed of the machine periodically to ensure that they are appropriate for the fabric and design being used. If necessary, make adjustments to the machine’s settings.
  3. Finishing the embroidery process: Once the embroidery is complete, carefully remove the hoop from the machine and unhoop the fabric. Trim any excess stabilizer from the back of the fabric and gently remove any remaining stabilizer from the front. If necessary, use an iron to press the embroidery to remove any wrinkles. With these steps, you can achieve a beautiful and professional-looking embroidery on thick fabrics.

After Embroidery Care

After completing the embroidery, it is important to take care of the towels and fabric to ensure that they remain in good condition. Here are some important steps to follow:

  1. Removing the stabilizer: After the embroidery is complete, remove any remaining stabilizer from the fabric. Be careful not to damage the embroidery while removing the stabilizer. Use scissors to carefully cut away any excess stabilizer.
  2. Proper washing and drying of embroidered towels and fabric: When washing embroidered towels and fabric, it’s important to follow the care instructions for the fabric and thread used in the embroidery. Use a gentle detergent and avoid bleach and fabric softeners. Wash the towels and fabric in cold water to prevent fading or shrinking. Avoid using a dryer to dry the towels and fabric, as the heat can damage the embroidery. Instead, air dry the towels and fabric.Don't Panic: Embroider a Towel With a Standard Sewing Machine, Just Like a Hoopy Frood : 6 Steps (with Pictures) - Instructables
  3. Tips for long-term preservation of embroidered towels and fabric: To preserve the embroidery on towels and fabric for a longer period, it’s important to store them properly. Store the towels and fabric in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, as exposure to light can cause fading. Use acid-free tissue paper to wrap the towels and fabric to prevent any discoloration. Avoid storing the towels and fabric in plastic bags, as this can cause moisture buildup and damage the embroidery. With these tips, you can keep your embroidered towels and fabric looking beautiful for years to come.

Conclusion

Embroidering on thick fabrics with a machine can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here’s a summary of the steps you can follow for successful embroidery:

  1. Prepare the towels and fabric by choosing the right fabric and stabilizer, properly washing and drying the fabric, and hooping the fabric and stabilizer together.
  2. Set up your machine for embroidery by choosing the right needle and thread, selecting an appropriate embroidery design, and adjusting the machine’s settings for thick fabrics.
  3. Embroider the towel or fabric by starting the embroidery process, monitoring the embroidery process, and finishing the embroidery process.
  4. Take care of the embroidered towels and fabric by removing the stabilizer, properly washing and drying the towels and fabric, and storing them properly.

Finally, it’s important to remember that practice and patience are key to achieving excellent results. Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts don’t turn out perfectly. With time and practice, you can master the art of embroidering on thick fabrics with a machine and create beautiful and unique designs. Happy embroidering!

See Also-

Leave a Comment