Home › Embroidery › What Stabilizer to Use for Machine Embroidery (Fabric-by-Fabric Chart)
| Fabric | Backing | Topping | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| T-shirt (cotton jersey) | No-show mesh cutaway 1.5 oz | Optional | Two layers for dense left-chest logos |
| Polo (pique) | Cutaway 2.0–2.5 oz | Water-soluble | Topping keeps fill from sinking |
| Performance / dri-fit | No-show mesh cutaway | Light topping | Use ballpoint needle, lighter density |
| Hoodie / fleece | Cutaway 2.5 oz | Water-soluble | Avoid tight hooping |
| Twill structured cap | Cap tearaway 2.5–3.0 oz | — | See how to embroider hats |
| Denim / canvas | Tearaway 1.5–1.8 oz | — | Sharp needle |
| Towel / terry | Tearaway | Water-soluble (must) | Prevents loops poking through |
| Sheer / organza / lace (FSL) | Washaway | Washaway | Rinse out completely |
| Leather / vinyl | Tearaway or cutaway | — | Sharp needle, low density |
Still unsure? Bring a garment to our Tempe showroom and we will test-sew it, or see cutaway vs tearaway.
A 2.0–2.5 oz cutaway covers most apparel jobs. Keep a tearaway and a water-soluble topping on hand too.
One is enough for most designs; add a second layer for very dense designs or very stretchy knits.
Yes — heavier backings support denser designs; lighter ones keep a softer feel.
Yes. Cap backing is stiffer and pre-cut to fit cap frames.
Related guides: Cutaway vs tearaway · Water-soluble stabilizer · Shop stabilizers
