Materials Guide: What to Use for Embroidery, Clothes and Shoes
If you love stitching a custom design onto a shirt or sprucing up a pair of trainers, the first thing you need to think about is the material you’re working with. The right fabric or leather can mean the difference between a piece that looks sharp and one that falls apart after a wash. In this guide we’ll break down the most common materials, why they matter, and how to pick the best one for your project.
Choosing the Right Fabric for Embroidery
When it comes to stitching, not every cloth behaves the same. Here are the everyday options you’ll see most often:
Cotton – Soft, breathable and easy to work with. It holds stitches well and is forgiving if you need to correct a mistake. Look for a medium weight (around 180‑200 gsm) if you want the design to sit flat without puckering.
Linen – A little stiffer than cotton, linen gives a crisp, natural look. It’s perfect for vintage‑style shirts or table linens. The key is to pre‑wash it so the fabric relaxes before you start stitching.
Polyester blends – These fabrics are cheap and resistant to shrinking. They can be slick, so a stabilizer is a must. If you’re making sporty tees, a polyester‑cotton blend gives durability while still accepting thread well.
What to watch out for: stretchy fabrics like jersey or spandex need a strong stabilizer on both sides, otherwise the stitches will wobble. Also, glossy surfaces (think satin) can cause the needle to slip, so either avoid them or use a heavy‑duty stabilizer.
Understanding Leather Options for Footwear
Embroidery on shoes isn’t as common as on shirt backs, but when you do it, the leather type matters a lot. Two main leathers dominate the market:
Cowhide – Thick, sturdy and ages well. It’s the go‑to for work boots and classic leather sneakers. Cowhide takes needle punches easily, but you’ll need a sharp needle to avoid tearing the surface.
Pigskin – Softer and more flexible than cowhide. It’s great for casual shoes that need a bit of give. Pigskin can be more prone to scuffs, so finish your embroidered design with a protective spray.
Tips for stitching leather: always use a leather needle (size 90/12 or 100/16) and a thimble to protect your finger. A light hand‑held waxed thread works best because it slides through the pores without fraying.
Other materials you might run into:
- Canvas – Heavy‑weight cotton that’s perfect for sneakers or tote bags. It’s tough enough for repeated wear and holds embroidery nicely.
- Denim – Similar to canvas but with a distinct weave. It can be a bit rough on the needle, so go slow and use a larger needle.
- Suede – A brushed surface that looks great when embroidered with a satin stitch. Since it’s delicate, work in small sections and avoid soaking.
Bottom line: match the material’s weight and texture with the stitch type you plan to use. A light, airy stitch on a heavy leather will look flat, while a thick stitch on a flimsy fabric can pucker.
Now that you know the basics, pick a material, grab the right needle and thread, and start creating pieces that feel as good as they look. Happy stitching!
What T-Shirts Last the Longest?
Understanding what makes some t-shirts last longer than others can save both time and money. Factors like fabric quality, construction, and care play a crucial role in a t-shirt's durability. Simple tips on choosing the right materials and maintaining them help keep garments looking new for longer. Explore how to make informed purchases for a wardrobe that stands the test of time.
Read more