That sounds like a lot of fun! The world of embroidery adhesives really has a lot to explore. In this guide, we will help readers understand how to properly select and use adhesives for their embroidery projects by detailing the various types of embroidery adhesives and their application techniques. We'll also answer some frequently asked questions to help readers resolve any confusion or challenges they may encounter. Get ready to learn the secrets of embroidery adhesives and make your embroidery projects go more smoothly!

The following will be mentioned in this post:

#1 Why Use Embroidery Binders in Embroidery

#2 Types of Embroidery Binders

#3 How to use embroidery adhesives properly

#4 What can go wrong with using embroidery adhesives

So let's get started!

#1  Why Use Embroidery adhesives in Embroidery

There are several main reasons for using embroidery adhesives in embroidery:

• Stabilizing the embroidery pattern: Embroidery adhesives help stabilize the embroidery pattern so that it remains flat and firm on the fabric. This is important for delicate embroidery work as it prevents the embroidery pattern from moving or twisting during the embroidery process.
• Precise Positioning: The use of embroidery adhesive helps to position the embroidery pattern accurately on the fabric. It keeps the embroidery pattern in a fixed position on the fabric and makes it easier for the embroiderer to follow the design.
• Facilitates Embroidery of Complex Patterns: For more complex embroidery patterns, the use of embroidery adhesive can provide additional support. It helps the embroiderer to better handle details and fine lines during the embroidery process, making embroidery easier and more accurate.
• Prevent fabric distortion: In some cases, embroidery patterns may need to remain on the fabric for a longer period of time, such as in commercial embroidery production. Embroidery adhesives prevent the fabric from losing its shape due to pulling or deformation during the embroidery process.

Overall, embroidery adhesives provide stability, precision, and convenience to help embroiderers achieve beautifully crafted embroidery pieces and ensure the quality and appearance of embroidery patterns. However, care needs to be taken when using embroidery adhesives to choose the right product and follow the correct application method to avoid any damage to the fabric.

#2 Types of Embroidery Adhesives

Spray Adhesive/Spray Adhesive:

Spray or Spray Adhesive Adhesive is a type of adhesive commonly used in the embroidery and sewing process, which is applied in the form of a spray to the fabric for temporarily securing the fabric to the embroidery frame or sewing backing. The primary function of this stabilizer is to provide a temporary bond that holds the fabric within the work area to prevent movement or twisting during the embroidery or sewing process. It is usually sprayed on the back or edges of the fabric before embroidery begins and the fabric is then secured to the frame or backing. After completing the embroidery, the spray adhesive can be easily removed or washed. Spray adhesive stabilizers are suitable for all types of embroidery and sewing projects, especially when working with larger or more intricate fabrics, where it can provide extra support and stability. In addition, spray adhesives can also be used to temporarily secure embroidery patterns or stencils on fabric for embroidery.

Water-soluble adhesives:

Water-soluble adhesives are special adhesives used in the embroidery or sewing process, which can be dissolved and removed in water. The main function of this stabilizer is to form a temporary layer of stabilizing support on the fabric, which can be completely removed by simple washing in water after completion of embroidery or sewing without leaving any residue. Water-soluble stabilizers are usually available as liquids or tablets. They are suitable for many different types of embroidery projects, especially when working with delicate fabrics or when intensive embroidery is required. The use of water-soluble stabilizers can help prevent the fabric from moving or twisting during the embroidery process, ensuring the quality and accuracy of the final piece.

Hot-melt adhesives:

Hot-melt adhesives are a type of specialty adhesive used in embroidery and sewing processes and are usually applied in a hot-melt form. Their main function is to form a stabilizing adhesive layer on the fabric to help maintain the stability and shape of the fabric during the embroidery or sewing process. Hot melt stabilizers are usually supplied in the form of glue sticks or wires and a hot melt glue gun is used to melt and apply them to the fabric. Once the hot melt has cooled, it forms a strong adhesive layer that can provide support and stability during embroidery or sewing. These stabilizers are often used for embroidering intricate or detailed patterns and for projects that require intensive sewing on fabric. They can help prevent the fabric from moving or distorting during the embroidery or sewing process, thus ensuring the quality and accuracy of the final piece.

Adhesive Backing:

Adhesive backing is coated with a layer of adhesive on one side to make it self-adhesive, also known as adhesive backing paper. They simplify the embroidery process by eliminating the need to apply additional adhesive. Adhesive backing papers are available in various forms such as hand torn, cut or washed to suit different fabric types and embroidery requirements.

Fusible web: Fusible web is a common fabric support material used to reinforce the structure and stability of fabrics. It is usually a thin layer of mesh fabric coated with fusible web adhesive on the back, which is bonded to the fabric through the use of hot melt or iron.

#3 How to Properly Use Embroidery Binders

The proper use of embroidery adhesives is crucial to the finished embroidery. Below below are some detailed hints and tips that can help you better use embroidery adhesives in embroidery for more beautiful embroidery.

• Prepare the fabric and stabilizer: You need to prepare the fabric and stabilizer that you are going to embroider in advance, the important thing to note here is to make sure that the fabric and stabilizer are clean and free from dust, lint and wrinkles. If necessary, iron the fabric and stabilizer to create a smooth surface.
• Applying Spray Adhesive / Spray Adhesive Binder: Place spray adhesive approximately 6 inches from fabric or stabilizer. Spray adhesive in a sweeping motion to evenly cover desired area. Control the amount used in spraying to avoid overspray, which can lead to excessive adhesion and potential staining. At the same time, for fabrics with weak or loose fibers, I recommend that you test the adhesive on a scrap piece first to make sure it won't fade or damage the fabric.
• Use a water-soluble adhesive: Spot or stick the water-soluble adhesive to the back of the fabric or stabilizer, make sure the embroidery position is lined up with it, and press gently to ensure proper bonding without distorting the fabric.
• Use of hot-melt adhesives: Cover the fabric or stabilizer with the hot melt adhesive, covering the area to fit the embroidery area. Activate the adhesive according to the hot melt adhesive instructions, which may require additional preparation with an iron, heat press, etc. Be careful to apply heat evenly when activating the heat to avoid damage to the fabric due to excessive heat.
• Use of adhesive backing paper: Press the adhesive side of the adhesive backing against the fabric, making sure that the adhesive area covers the area to be embroidered. At the same time apply the adhesive backing paper smoothly to the fabric, starting from the center and working outwards to remove any air bubbles or wrinkles. For a better fit, it is best to use a roller or hand to firmly press the adhesive backing paper onto the fabric to ensure proper adhesion.
• Remove excess adhesive: When you apply adhesive and inevitably squeeze too much, don't panic, slightly dab a clean cloth or cotton swab with a suitable adhesive remover. Control the amount and gently soak up the excess adhesive, do not rub or you will spread the excess adhesive further or damage the fabric.

#4 What can go wrong with using embroidery adhesives

Embroidery adhesive is a commonly used adhesive for fixing embroidery threads, which can fix the threads onto the fabric to enhance the stability of embroidery. However, the use of embroidery adhesive may also cause some potential issues that require us to be vigilant in our selection and use.

• Durability issues: Embroidery adhesives may not last as long as thread-interwoven embroidery. Under frequent washing, abrasion or exposure to sunlight, the adhesive may gradually fail, causing the embroidery to come loose or break. Therefore, when choosing embroidery adhesives, we should look for those with good durability and resistance to washing.
• Visibility issues: Embroidery adhesives may form a film on the surface of the fabric so that the embroidery lines no longer blend naturally into the fabric texture. This may cause the embroidery to look prominent and not smooth enough, detracting from the overall aesthetics. To avoid visibility problems, we can choose adhesives that become transparent after drying and blend into the fabric.
• Reversibility issues: Using certain types of embroidery adhesives may make the embroidery irreversible. If we decide to alter or remove the embroidery, it can be very difficult and may damage the fabric. This is because some adhesives become very strong when they dry and are difficult to tear off or wash off. Before using an adhesive, we should carefully consider the permanence of the embroidery and select the appropriate adhesive as needed.
• Fabric damage issues: Embroidery adhesives may cause damage to fabrics, especially to some thin and sensitive fabrics. Some adhesives may cause the fabric to become stiff, brittle or discolored, thus ruining the appearance and texture of the fabric. Before using an adhesive, we should test it on an inconspicuous part of the fabric to ensure that it is compatible with the fabric and will not cause damage.
• Restrictions on use: Embroidery adhesives may have some use restrictions. For example, some adhesives may only be suitable for certain types of fabrics or embroidery thread materials and not for other materials. Therefore, when selecting and using embroidery adhesives, it is necessary to carefully read and follow product descriptions and usage guidelines to ensure that our choices are realistic.
• Remove excess adhesive: When you are working with adhesives and inevitably squeeze too much, do not panic, slightly dab a clean cloth or cotton swab with a suitable adhesive remover. Control the amount and gently soak up the excess adhesive, do not rub or you will spread the excess further or damage the fabric.

The use of embroidery adhesives can enhance the stability and durability of embroidery, but it also requires us to be aware of potential problems and precautions. Choosing products with good durability and visibility, carefully considering the permanence of the embroidery, and testing to avoid fabric damage are some of the important issues in using embroidery adhesives. At the same time, following product instructions and usage guidelines are key to ensuring the safe and effective use of embroidery adhesives. By choosing carefully and using them correctly, we can ensure the quality and longevity of our embroidery work.