How to Embroider on Minky Fabric With a Machine

Minky fabric is characterized by its pleasant tactile qualities, including a velvety texture and softness. Additionally, it possesses a slight degree of elasticity and a measure of instability. This particular fabric is commonly referred to as minkee.

Minky possesses a distinct attribute commonly known as “nap,” denoting the plush layer that adorns the surface of the fabric.

While some minky fabrics have a uniformly smooth surface, others possess a textured pattern characterized by the presence of dots.

What is Minky Fabric?

Minky fabric is commonly employed in several baby-related applications, including the manufacturing of blankets, diaper changing pads, soft toys, loveys, and even as decorative embellishments for handmade burp cloths. Please consider these remarkable concepts for embroidered baby presents.

Furthermore, it is commonly employed as a soft support material for quilts, although my own observation that it presents a somewhat greater level of sewing difficulty compared to cotton backings.

Can you embroider on minky fabric?

Working with minky fabric for embroidery has some challenges, as it is not considered the most straightforward material to handle. Whether one opts for serging or stitching, the process tends to generate a considerable amount of mess. However, the ultimate result of the embroidered minky fabric justifies the extra exertion involved.

Supplies for Embroidering Minky

The below enumeration comprises the materials utilized in the construction of this guide. It should be noted that there exists a certain degree of flexibility in this matter.

• In order to stabilize the embroidery process, it is recommended to utilize either a medium-weight cut-away stabilizer or a no-show mesh when working with the embroidery machine and hoop.
• The topping in question is a water-soluble substance, namely Sulky Solvy.
• The required needle for this task is a 75/11 embroidery needle.
• The embroidery thread utilized in this project was 40 weight polyester. Nonetheless, it is worth noting that the choice of thread may vary depending on individual preferences and requirements.
• The use of temporary fabric adhesive, such as Odif 505, is discretionary.
  Small and pointed scissors.

Best Stabilizer for Minky Fabric

Please select between a cut-away or no-show mesh cut-away stabilizer.

The utilization of a stabilizer is important when working with minky plush fabrics, since they tend to possess a degree of flexibility and instability. This is particularly crucial for intricate patterns that need thick stitching.

The use of sticky peel-away material with a self-adhesive backing may be suitable for patterns characterized by a low stitch count. However, it is important to note that this type of material may not exhibit the same level of durability when subjected to repeated washings and regular use.

Due to its distinctive fluffiness, minky fabric necessitates the employment of a water-soluble coating. The application of this film-like coating prevents the penetration of stitches through the cloth.

Design Considerations

Both appliques and fill-stitch designs are highly suitable choices for embroidery projects with minky fabric. The aesthetic appeal of having a name monogrammed or embroidered is enhanced when the letters have a satisfactory level of density.

To ensure that a pattern with a low stitch count and flowing threads remains visible and distinct from the nap of the fabric, it is recommended to employ a knockdown or nap-tack stitch beneath the design. This stitching technique prevents the design from becoming obscured or lost inside the fabric’s nap. One potential strategy to prevent the pattern from becoming obscured inside the texture of the cloth.

If one is in need of design ideas, it is advisable to explore sources for downloading free embroidery patterns. By referring to a compilation of websites that are regularly utilized due to their exceptional free offerings, individuals may access a wide range of impressive designs.

How to Embroider on Minky Fabric

1. Prepare the Minky.

To start, it is advisable to make an indication on the minky cloth denoting the precise location of the pattern’s center.

Regarding the cover for my diaper changing pad, I utilized a water-soluble marking pen to create a central mark within the designated area where I intended to place the name. Typically, I would annotate excessively lengthy lines; nevertheless, owing to the presence of recurring raised dots on the minky fabric, I was able to conveniently align it inside my embroidery hoop utilizing this approach.

One possible approach to assist in previewing the placement of an embroidered design, in cases when the desired location is uncertain, is to generate a paper duplicate of the design using embroidery software. This printed copy may then be utilized as a visual aid to aid in determining the optimal placement for the design.

2. Hoop the Minky Fabric and Load the Machine.

Subsequently, proceed to interlock the two layers, ensuring that the stabilizer is situated beneath and the right side of the minky fabric is oriented upwards. (For anyone encountering difficulties in manipulating fabric within a hoop, please refer to the following instructions.)

If there is a worry about potential damage to the minky fabric, one possible solution is to place it on top of the hooped stabilizer in order to float it. Prior to commencing the embroidery process, it is imperative to ensure the stability of the fabric by employing pins, basting stitches, or glue to prevent any undesired movement.

Subsequently, proceed to the subsequent phase and affix the hoop within your stitching apparatus.

Remove any extra material that is obstructing the area where the embroidery will be done. This precautionary measure serves to prevent inadvertent fusion of two components.

Once the hoop has been securely affixed, proceed by adding a coating of water-soluble stabilizer onto the hooped minky fabric. While it is possible to attach this topper using fabric and stabilizer, I personally like to float it instead. In essence, this enables a more streamlined process for engaging in the activity of hooping.

If there is a need to secure the topping, one might choose to utilize painter’s tape, masking tape, pins, or a minimal amount of water along the edges of the border.

3. Double Check Settings and Start the Machine.

Please ensure that you have correctly selected the suitable needle, upper thread, and bobbin thread for your sewing task, and confirm that the pattern you are working on is oriented in the correct direction.

thereafter, initiate the machine’s operation by depressing the start button, and thereafter observe its functionality.

4. Put on the Finishing Touches.

Once the stitching process on the machine has concluded, it is advisable to detach the hoop from the machine and subsequently extract the product from within the hoop.

Next, proceed to eliminate the water-soluble coating situated on the surface of the minky fabric by employing a cautious approach of tearing it off. If the item is not easily removable, it can be extracted using water at a later point in time.

If an object is marked with a pen that is water-soluble, the mark can be readily erased by employing water.

In conclusion, this encompasses the entirety of the subject matter at hand. In the event of experiencing hoop burn, it is possible to mitigate this discomfort by employing a little quantity of Magic Spray size or by subjecting the minky fabric to a washing machine cycle. Fortunately, the majority of minky fabric has a high level of durability, enabling it to endure several cycles of washing without significant deterioration.