I think you're absolutely right. I'm using 2 layers of stabilizer: one using a spray-on adhesive and one an iron-on. I need it because otherwise I get a lot of puckering when doing fill and satin sts. Any suggestions? I really do need a good stabilizer but don't know how else to go.

Are you also using a hoop? If not, you might be able to use less stabilizer and use the hoop to stretch the fabric. If you're already using a hoop, you may need to try a different stabilizer.

Yes, I'm using a hoop. Any suggestions as far as a good stabilizer?

When I appliqued the quilt, I used Heat n Bond Lite. It is advertised as "the best sewable bond". Don't know if that's true, but it worked well for me. It held the appliques in place on the quilt with no puckering where I sewed and added no noticeable bulk or stiffness.

What kind of fabric and what size needle are you using? My go to needle is a 75/11 top stitching needle. Your needle may be too big and my local shop started recommending the top stitching needles because they have a larger eye.

My first thought was that sticky stabilizer was the culprit. Also try using a machine embroidery needle.

I generally use a light weight tearaway stabilizer. If I get puckers I use two layers. I don't like the sticky types at all - they gum up my needles and if I don't get the fabric really, really smooth those bubbles and wrinkles are permanently stitched in!

Donna

Are 6you loading your hoop correctly?..fabric (and stabilizer) over outer hoop, then push inner hoop on top of fabric? I've seen loaded wrong with fabric over inner hoop and outer hoop forced over. Re stabilizer, I use all kinds, but I don't hoop it with fabric for most of my sewing...I just hoop my fabric and slide a piece of stabilizer under & start stitching.

I'm using size 75/11 embroidery needles on cotton fabric. I am using 2 layers of stabilizer to prevent puckering. Msmeow, how do you use your 2 layers of stabilizer w/o any adhesive?

I think the problem is the 2 layers of sticky stabilizer I'm using but I don't know any other way to hold that fabric fast enough to prevent puckers. With the 2 layers of stabilizer, I get a nice smooth finish. I do use a basting st. all the way around the inside of the hoop to hold it down, too. Perhaps I can use 2 layers of non-adhesive stabilizer in the hoop w/o the fabric and then baste the fabric over that from the top of the hoop. Any suggestions on that?

Perhaps the fabric is slipping in the hoop? You can cut 4 little strips of sticky stabilizer ( it's what I used)... Wrap 4 sides of inner hoop ( only 1 or 2 inches) sticky side to hoop. This makes fabric fit more securely between hoops. Even as tight, I found I could almost see light in the edge a couple of places. I cut my sticky half inch. And wrapped all around outside edge and let it roll to underneath. Sure made a diff in holding my fabric taut.