Why won't my water-soluble stabilizer wash away?

The most common reasons water-soluble stabilizer will not wash away are using the wrong type of stabilizer, not using enough water, water that is too cold, or stabilizer residue trapped between dense stitches.

It Needs More Water

Some water-soluble stabilizers need to be soaked or rinsed thoroughly before they dissolve completely. Follow the instructions provided by the stabilizer manufacturer.

The Water Is Too Cold

Some water-soluble stabilizers dissolve more easily in warm water than cold water. Check the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended water temperature.

Too Much Stabilizer Is Trapped in the Stitches

Dense FSL designs can hold small pieces of stabilizer between the stitches. Gently rinse and soak the design rather than trying to pull the stabilizer out forcefully.

You Are Using the Wrong Stabilizer

Not all stabilizers are completely water-soluble. Make sure you are using a wash-away stabilizer designed to dissolve in water, especially when making free-standing lace.

The Stabilizer Has Not Had Enough Time to Dissolve

Some products dissolve quickly, while others require soaking for several minutes. Give the stabilizer enough time to break down before rinsing it away.

Too Much Stabilizer Was Used

Using multiple layers of water-soluble stabilizer can provide extra support for some FSL designs, but it can also require more soaking and rinsing to remove all of the residue.

Quick Troubleshooting Checklist

  • Confirm that the stabilizer is water-soluble.
  • Check the manufacturer's washing instructions.
  • Use the recommended water temperature.
  • Soak the design long enough for the stabilizer to dissolve.
  • Gently rinse away remaining residue.
  • Avoid pulling delicate FSL while the stabilizer is being removed.

Best Tip

Don't try to remove stubborn stabilizer by pulling it out of the lace. Soak and gently rinse the design according to the stabilizer manufacturer's instructions. This helps remove the stabilizer without stretching or damaging the delicate FSL 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.