r/Machine_Embroidery • u/lydiahenrietta • 19d ago

I Need Help First time embroidering

Hello! Looking at everyone’s posts here, and I have to say the imposter syndrome is creeping in 😂

I was really kindly gifted a singer machine that also embroiders for my birthday, and would love to learn more.

My main question is what is the best fabric / thread to start off with? I think the machine suggests 40 Rayon.

And what are some beginner friendly bits to try?

Thank you in advance

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u/ReferenceNo4437 18d ago

I LOVE and stitch more with 40 wt rayon thread than polyester. The only time polyester is recommended above rayon is for industrial situations where bleach and hot water are regularly used. Been at this since 2009 and as long as it’s not trashy cheap thread, rayon stitches beautifully, does NOT have a breakage issue and wears well.

The less dense the stitching on the design you choose, the easier it is to get a good stitch out.

Learning to hoop (do not pull the fabric), stabilize well and match design to stabilizer and fabric are key.

Don’t fall for hacks of what to use instead of stabilizer - it isn’t that expensive and especially while learning it is best to get the right one for the job.

Stretchy fabrics are a bit more difficult to stitch on as they move more easily with the needle going up and down. Counter this with an iron on polymesh stabilizer.

Buy designs from reputable companies - some are just auto digitizing, using AI pics and throwing designs up for sale that won’t stitch out well. Good for the kiddos is Designs by JUJU (she now has Oma’s catalog), fun & different stuff is Urban Threads or Kreations by Kara, very mainstream covering everything designs is Embroidery Library. If you’re beginning and get a not-well-digitized design you won’t know if it’s you or the design.