Issue link: https://docs.hic.us/i/403552
Special care must be used when removing cut-away backing so as not to cut a hole in the garment. The first rule is slide the scissors, rather than cutting with them. It's almost impossible to make a hole when sliding. The second rule is to turn the garment inside out and hold it by grasping one edge of the backing, such that the garment hangs down and away. Now slide the scissors around the edges of the design (but not touching the design) until the garment falls away. Tear-Away Backings Tear-away backings get their name from the fact that the excess can be "torn away" upon completion of the sewing. This makes for a more convenient finishing process. However, tearaways do not provide nearly the degree of stabilization as cutaways, especially for large designs. Once reason for this is that once the backing is perforated by needle penetrations, it can be punched out much like a paper doll. This is referred to as the "cookie-cutter" effect. Thus more stitches lead to less stability. It's also more flexible than cut-away and allows a higher degree of fabric bounce or flagging while sewing. In many cases it will take two or more layers of tear-away to provide a suitable degree of stabilization, and even then, it may not have the same results as a cut-away backing. Just like cutaways, these backings come in several thicknesses. Typically they will be used with more stable garments such as woven fabric, towels, lightweight denim, etc. One popular use of tearaways is for applications where the backside of the embroidery will be seen, such as towels. In this situation it will be desirable to have a clean finished appearance, which won't be possible with cut-away backings. Another common situation, is thin, light- colored garments, where the edges of the backing can be seen through the fabric. Once again, tear-away is preferred, as the excess can be completely removed, unlike cut-away, which can be trimmed closely, but not be completely removed. Adhesive Backings This type of backing is typically a stiff tear-away that is coated on one side with an adhesive. Such backings are typically available in one of three forms: Peel And Stick – One side of the backing has a ready-to-use adhesive which is protected by a paper covering. The covering is removed to expose the adhesive. Fusible – The adhesive side of the backing is dormant until activated by heat. Typically a household iron is suitable for applying heat. Wet – The adhesive side of the backing is dormant until activated by moisture. A small amount of water is brushed to activate the adhesive. This type has superior holding qualities, yet leaves no visible residue. Adhesive backings are ideal for very unstable fabrics, as they bond completely, prior to sewing. Perhaps the most common use of adhesive backings is for a process referred to as "hoopless" embroidery. In this process, the garment is not hooped at all. Instead, the adhesive backing is hooped, with the adhesive side www.hsi.us care@hsi.us 184