Originally Posted by MommaDorian
Here's what I think I've learned from your tips:
1) Interfacing is not stabilizer
2) I don't know what stabilizer looks/feels like
3) I was using a pattern that is too dense for the fabric I used
4) I had the fabric pulled too tight in the hoop
Does this sound about right? :)
Good summary! Call this project a "class". That's what I do when I don't quite get it right.
If you are shopping at JoAnn's, they often have the stabilizer in a different place from the interfacing. Note: I have used interfacing in a pinch. Stabilizer should hold the fabric just enough so that the stitches don't warp the fabric, but should not stiffen the fabric so much the outline of the stabilizer shows.
Like I said, a design that fits the fabric is truly the way to go, but there is a learning curve to get that right.
Also, it's ok to break the rules if it comes out the way you want it to. :)