How to Embroider Freestanding Lace

by erika on December 08, 2009

The new Precious Crochet collection from Husqvarna Viking (pictured above) has prompted some questions from customers about how to embroider lace successfully.

There are a few things to take into consideration:

First, it is important to use the thread weight the designs were digitized for. The above collection was created for 30wt thread. You will have good results with both cotton and rayon.

Also, it is advisable to increase the top tension for these embroideries. Because you want them to look the same on front and back, increase the tension to balance the thread so the top meets the bobbin thread in the center, rather than in the back as in traditional embroidery. This will be very close to the tension you use in sewing. For Husqvarna Vikings, this is around 4 on the tension dial.

Use at least 2 layers of a water soluble stabilizer, like Sulky's Solvy or Inspira's Aqua Magic. Using Hoop Ease will prevent the stabilizer from slipping in the hoop while embroidering.

Trim as much stabilizer away as possible before rinsing. If you want some stiffness left to the embroidery, give them a short rinse under running water. If you want to remove all the stabilizer, rinse them in warm water with some fabric softener added. The fabric softener will expedite the process.

Freestanding lace makes lovely brooches, bookmarks, coasters, gift tags, hostess gifts, key chain decorations and more. Try it out today!

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