How do I keep embroidery from coming loose after washing?

To keep embroidery from coming loose after washing, use a properly digitized design, choose the right stabilizer for the fabric, and wash the finished item according to the fabric's care instructions.

Choose the Right Stabilizer

The stabilizer should match the fabric and the type of embroidery. For stable fabrics such as denim, canvas, and cotton, a cut-away or tear-away stabilizer may work well depending on the project. Stretchy or knit fabrics generally benefit from a cut-away stabilizer because it continues supporting the stitches after the garment is removed from the hoop.

Use a Water-Soluble Topper When Needed

For towels, fleece, and other fabrics with a raised or textured surface, a water-soluble topper can help keep the stitches from sinking into the fabric. The topper is placed on top of the fabric and removed after stitching.

Use a Good-Quality Design

A properly digitized embroidery design should have appropriate stitch density and underlay for the fabric. Poorly digitized designs can be more likely to pull apart or lose their shape.

Check Your Thread Tension

Incorrect thread tension can create loose or poorly formed stitches. Make sure your machine is stitching correctly before starting a large project.

Wash Gently

Turn embroidered clothing inside out and follow the garment's care instructions. Avoid unnecessarily harsh washing, high heat, or strong chemicals.

Best Tip

If embroidery repeatedly comes loose after washing, check the design, stabilizer, thread tension, and stitching quality. Using the proper stabilizer for the fabric is one of the most important steps for creating embroidery that holds up well over time.

Source of information: With over 200,000 customers and a private Facebook group with more than 2,000 members, we have heard just about every embroidery question and troubleshooting problem you can imagine. This question has come to us directly from customers by email, through our Facebook page, and in our private Facebook group.

Have another question? See all the answers in our machine embroidery designs FAQ.