1 Answer

Stabilzer is meant to make the fabric stable. It does not have visible fibers, does not give in any direction. It is used to HOLD the fabric in place against the pressure and tork of the machine which pulls the fabric inward as it stitches. That is why it is used in machine embroidery.

Interfacing will shread when used as stabilier. It is not as strong, but stiffens and adds body. It is designed to give and move with the body and the fabric. The old fashioned stabilizer was frequently cotton organza, a nice crisp light weight woven fabric. Different grades of woven, all the way to buckram has been used but all of it gives, shifts and moves. Even the non-woven interfacings we use will shread when pulled. Often when doing hand embroidery interfacing is often used because availablility and although there is a draw, the pull of hand embroidery is not as great as that by a machine.

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