Why is my FSL design not holding together?

The most common reasons a free-standing lace (FSL) design does not hold together are insufficient stabilization, missing or broken stitches, incorrect thread tension, poor-quality thread, or significant resizing of the design.

Not Enough Stabilizer

FSL designs need strong water-soluble stabilizer to support the stitches while they are being embroidered. If the stabilizer is too weak or too thin, the stitches may not connect properly.

Stitches Are Missing

FSL relies on interconnected stitches to create the finished lace. A thread break, skipped stitch, or machine problem can leave weak areas that cause the design to separate.

Thread Tension Is Incorrect

Incorrect upper thread or bobbin tension can prevent the stitches from forming correctly. Check your threading and tension before stitching another FSL design.

Thread Is Breaking

Repeated thread breaks can leave sections of the design incomplete. Check for a damaged needle, incorrect threading, excessive tension, or thread that is fraying.

Design Was Resized

Significant resizing can change the density and spacing of the stitches. This may weaken the connections that hold an FSL design together.

Water-Soluble Stabilizer Was Removed Too Soon

The stabilizer provides temporary support while the lace is being formed. Follow the stabilizer manufacturer's instructions when washing or dissolving it so the finished lace has time to form properly.

Problem With the Embroidery File

If the same section consistently separates or falls apart every time you stitch the design, the embroidery file may have missing stitches or another design problem.

Quick Troubleshooting Checklist

  • Use strong water-soluble stabilizer.
  • Hoop the stabilizer firmly.
  • Check for broken or missing stitches.
  • Check upper thread and bobbin tension.
  • Use good-quality embroidery thread.
  • Avoid significant resizing.
  • Follow the stabilizer manufacturer's instructions when removing it.

Best Tip

FSL should be stitched exactly as digitized whenever possible. If the design repeatedly fails in the same area despite proper stabilization and stitching, the file may need to be checked rather than changing your materials or machine settings.

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.