You did well to find a workable solution for an already cut 3 inch border. For machine embroidery, I use a wider strip, and cut away the excess fabric for strip quilting later. I often use both the (top) clear plastic stabilizer and the washaway tearaway med. weight stabilizer (underneath). I have a brother Innovis and sometimes I just place a stabilizer square ( 8" X 8") under the closed hoop laying flat on the feed dogs. It works just fine. If your fabric is 100% cotton, you can first tear away the stabilizer around the edges of the design, then just soak the rest in a basin of cool water.Then let it air dry on a hanger then press flat. It comes out perfect