I use a web mesh stabilizer. I have rolls of it that I use for machine embroidery. It is soft, pliable, washes well and keeps it's shape. I especially like it because it can stay on the block and I do not have to remove it. I use it for all my embroidery quilt blocks. I get mine from a shop in Conroe, TX, but it can also be purchased at almost any shop that sells stabilizer of any kind.