stabilizer or not
 

I was wondering if I want to sew around animal pictures on a panel but not want the stitches to be seen on the backing, do I use only the panel and batting, or should I use panel, batting and a stabilizer.

Idle Di

I don't know that batting And stabilizer is necessary, I guess it would depend on the choice of batting. You could use just a lightweight stabilizer, stitch around the elements then sandwich with batting and backing to quilt. If you want the elements to be extra puffy you could use batting; then are you planning to use another batting when sandwiched with backing to quilt? Or use one batting, adding backing and quilting after the details? It just depends on how you plan to finish, how heavy you want it ( the more layers the heavier it will be, i.e.: panel, stabilizer, batting, backing)

I wouldn't use any stabilizer, but you will need to sew through the panel and batting, whichever type you use, so it won't fall apart when washed. I have done a couple this way with a little extra quilting to hold the backing in place.

Thank you, I just was not sure if it sewing with only front panel and batting would ruin the machine.

Idle Di

While I'm not sure you need it, perhaps you could use a "faux" backing of muslin or old sheet or whatever. You'd later add the true backing and the "faux" wouldn't be visible.