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Q&A
By Marla Stefanelli
What is the best way to embroider on velvet?
Eileen M.,
e-mail
You don't want to hoop the velvet because the frame will leave crush marks on the fabric. Instead, hoop a cut-away adhesive stabilizer, remove the paper backing and finger-press the velvet onto the stabilizer.
To control the nap and to keep it from poking through the design, use a topper over the fabric. A watersoluble topper can be used on washable velvet. Clear or colored vinyl also works well, and stays in the embroidery to prevent the nap from poking through after the design is completed. Use a light-color vinyl when stitching with a light thread on a dark background.
Look for designs with underlay stitching–the stitching also helps to control the nap. These stitches are worked before the actual embroidery begins.
Choose a ball-point needle and an acrylic thread.
Always do a test stitchout, especially when you're unfamiliar with a technique or process. Use this sample to adjust your tensions, etc., until the stitches are formed to your satisfaction.
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