What are backings and toppings?
Backings and Toppings
There are a variety of backings and toppings available, each having different qualities, making them suitable for various fabrics.
They provide a base strength for the embroidery giving designs stability and preventing fabric distortion. This is especially true when embroidering a fabric with stretch.
Water Soluble
These are used more frequently as a topping for fabrics that are difficult to handle or have a surface pile. By placing the water soluble topping over the fabric the texture of the weave and pile is disguised. This stabilises the stitches and stops designs from distorting.
It can also be used as a backing for items where the back will be seen, but the design still needs stabilising.
Tearaway Backing
This is one of the cheapest and most commonly used backings. It is usually a non-woven fabric that can be torn in all directions. It is available in black or white, soft or hard.
Wax Paper
This is used mainly as a backing for fabrics that grip or are heavy. The use of the wax paper makes the frame slide with greater ease and is especially useful on leather as it tends to have a grip on the sewing field.
Organza
This is a very strong and supple sheer that is used as a backing. It leaves the embroidery flexible and preserves the natural look of the fabric.
Burn-away Backing
This is a natural backing that burns away rather than melts; care must be taken when exposing the fabric to heat. Over exposure will cause the filaments to break up and blacken, they can be difficult to brush away and will mar the finished product
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