The Best Uses for the Most Common Embroidery Backings and Toppings

There are plenty of backing options on the market and it can get overwhelming. Get to know the more common embroidery backing types that are used today and which types of garments they pair best with.

Tearaway Backing
Characteristics:
Backing that can be removed by hand (torn) from the fabric
Can trim much closer to the stitches
Will wash away
Use:
Hats, strong and stable fabrics, back of towels and robes

 

Cutaway Backing
Characteristics:
Much stronger than tearaway
Excess backing must be removed with scissors
Most common form of backing
Most common weights are 2.5 oz and 3.25 oz
Use:
Shirts, left chest designs, jackets, denim, lightweight t-shirts (use 3.25 oz)

Performance Wear Backing
Characteristics:
Stabilizes stretchy, slippery garments
Prevents drifting outlines, puckering and pooching
Excess backing must be removed with scissors
Use:
Sports uniforms/garments

 

 

Self-Adhesive Backing
Characteristics:
Non woven backing
Do not need clamping devices or spray adhesives
Peel off protective paper and attach garment to the adhesive side of the non-woven backing
Use:
In hoops, continuous border frames, embroidering hats

Soft n’ Sheer Backing
Characteristics: 
Textured, non-woven, spun-bonded nylon
Excess backing must be removed with scissors
Use:
Knitwear

Solvy Topping
Characteristics:
Water-soluble film
Topping smooths the surface of the fabric
Prevents stitches from falling through the fabric
Use:
Towels, “nappy” materials, loosely woven pique fabrics