Why is my free-standing lace embroidery falling apart?

The most common reasons free-standing lace (FSL) embroidery falls apart are using the wrong stabilizer, insufficient stitching, incorrect thread tension, poor-quality thread, or not completely removing the water-soluble stabilizer.

Wrong Stabilizer

FSL designs need a strong water-soluble stabilizer that can support the stitches while they are being embroidered. A stabilizer that is too weak may allow the design to separate or lose its shape.

Not Enough Stabilizer

Using too little stabilizer can cause the stitches to shift while stitching. For FSL, hoop the stabilizer securely and use enough layers to provide firm support.

Stitches Are Not Connecting

Free-standing lace depends on the stitches connecting with one another to create a stable piece. If stitches are missing or the design is not stitching correctly, weak areas can cause the lace to fall apart.

Thread Tension

Incorrect thread tension can affect how the stitches lock together. Make sure the upper thread and bobbin are threaded correctly and that the tension is appropriate for your machine.

Thread Problems

Weak, damaged, or unsuitable thread can break during stitching and leave gaps in the lace. Use good-quality embroidery thread and replace thread that is fraying or breaking repeatedly.

Stabilizer Was Removed Too Aggressively

After stitching, dissolve the water-soluble stabilizer according to the stabilizer manufacturer's instructions. Removing too much stabilizer before the lace has fully formed can weaken the finished piece.

Design Was Resized

Significant resizing can change the stitch density and connections within an FSL design. This can create weak areas that were not present in the original digitized design.

Quick Troubleshooting Checklist

  • Use a strong water-soluble stabilizer.
  • Hoop the stabilizer firmly and evenly.
  • Check for broken or missing stitches.
  • Check upper thread and bobbin tension.
  • Use good-quality embroidery thread.
  • Avoid significantly resizing FSL designs.
  • Remove the water-soluble stabilizer according to its instructions.

Best Tip

FSL depends on the stitches themselves to create the structure, so proper stabilization and a correctly stitched design are especially important. If the lace repeatedly falls apart in the same area, check the design file for missing or broken stitches.

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.