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7 Game-Changing Products to Elevate Your In-The-Hoop Embroidery Projects

Introduction:

Ever feel like your in-the-hoop embroidery projects could use a little extra help? Trust me, I’ve been there. After countless hours at the embroidery machine, I’ve discovered a few game-changing products that make creating those adorable plushies and appliqués so much easier (and way more fun!). Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these tools can save you time, reduce frustration, and help you achieve stunning results every time. Ready to up your embroidery game? Let’s dive in!



Silicone capped tacks holding a piece of fabric in the embroidery hoop

1. Rubber Silicone Capped Tacks

Rubber Silicone Capped Tacks are a lifesaver when it comes to securing fabric to your hooped stabilizer without adding bulk. These small, flat metal tacks feature a low-profile silicone cap, allowing them to grip fabric securely without interfering with your embroidery foot. Position them strategically to keep everything in place, and you’ll notice your in-the-hoop projects looking crisper and more professional. Bonus: they also come in adorable shapes and pretty colors! You can find them here on Amazon.

Why They’re Game-Changing: They prevent fabric shifting and puckering, ensuring a polished finish on every project.

Image Suggestion: Close-up photo of the tacks holding fabric in place on a hoop.


2. Temporary Spray Adhesive

One of the biggest challenges with in-the-hoop projects is keeping all those floating fabric layers exactly where you want them. Temporary Spray Adhesive comes to the rescue by providing a light, repositionable hold that keeps your fabric in place without leaving a sticky residue. No more slipping, sliding, or unexpected wrinkles—just perfectly aligned pieces every time.

Why It’s Game-Changing: It reduces fabric movement, resulting in smooth, precise stitches and less frustration. It adds even more stability when stitching complex embroidery designs. And….its temporary!


Magnetic Embroidery Hoops are fast and easy

3. Magnetic Machine Embroidery Hoops

Magnetic hoops are an absolute must-have for in-the-hoop projects. There are two main players in the game: Mighty Hoops and Snap Hoops from DIME. Mighty Hoops are known for their incredible strength, perfect for thicker materials or complex designs, but their raised edge can make it tricky to tape fabrics. This is where Rubber Silicone Capped Tacks or spray adhesive come in handy. On the other hand, Snap Hoops have a flat surface, making them ideal for all in-the-hoop projects, and they’re compatible with most machines. DIME’s magnetic hoops can be found on Amazon here. (We make a tiny commission when you use this link)

Why They’re Game-Changing: They simplify the hooping process, reduce the risk of hoop burn, and make it easy to swap fabrics in and out without constant re-hooping. Hooping new stabilizer is lightning fast so you can move on to the next step of your project.


4. Double-Sided Wash-Away Sticky Stabilizer

This product is a game-changer for anyone working with in-the-hoop designs that require multiple layers or precision placement. The double-sided sticky surface secures your fabric without pins or tacks, and once your project is complete, it washes away, leaving no trace. This is perfect for projects like appliqués or multi-layer plushies where you need everything to stay exactly in place. H.B.I. Products Sticky Wash Away – Water Soluble Machine Embroidery Stabilizer can be found on amazon here.

Why It’s Game-Changing: It saves time, reduces fabric shifting, and ensures a clean finish—no stabilizer residue left behind!


Shannon cuddle minky in a color pack

5. Shannon Minky Cuddle Fabrics

Let’s talk about fabric! Shannon Minky Cuddle Fabrics are the gold standard for creating soft, plushy projects that are irresistible to touch. These fabrics are thin enough to work with every hoop size yet plush and cozy, giving your in-the-hoop designs a beautiful, three-dimensional look. They come in a rainbow of colors and patterns, so there’s something for every project. You can find all sorts of colors of Shannon Minky on Etsy, at Missouri Star Quilt Company (my favorite but slow shipping) or Fat Quarter Shop!

Why They’re Game-Changing: The perfect amount of stretch and softness, making them easy to hoop and ideal for projects that need a bit of extra fluff.


Plastic Doll Joints being held

6. Doll Joints

When it comes to creating 3D stuffed animals, doll joints are an absolute game-changer. These clever little devices allow you to easily attach arms, legs, and heads without needing a sewing machine. They add articulation to your creations, making them even more fun to play with. Plus, they’re super easy to use—just snap them together, and you’re done! When you have limited time to enjoy crafting, doll joints are a serious consideration to make the most of your hobby. You can find the proper doll joints for your in the hoop project at our sister website for doll making supplies at Juno Doll.

Why They’re Game-Changing: They save time, eliminate the need for hand-sewing, and add extra motion and realism to your stuffed creations.


An in the hoop project on a multi needle embroidery machine

7. Multi-Needle Embroidery Machine

While it might be a bit of an investment, a multi-needle embroidery machine can transform the way you create. With multiple needles ready to go, you can switch between thread colors without stopping to re-thread—no more babysitting your machine! The higher embroidery foot also makes it easier to handle bulky fabrics, reducing the chance of your project getting ripped out of the hoop. See your local facebook marketplace for a gently loved unit, scour ebay for used deals, or see your local dealer to get one of these workhorses with affordable financing offers.

Why It’s Game-Changing: Faster stitching, automatic trimming, and the ability to handle complex designs with ease—what’s not to love?


Conclusion:

So there you have it—seven game-changing products that will take your in-the-hoop embroidery projects to the next level! Whether it’s keeping your fabric in place with silicone tacks, making quick work of plushie assembly with doll joints, or speeding through designs with a multi-needle machine, these tools are sure to make your embroidery journey smoother and more enjoyable. So go ahead, give them a try, and watch your projects turn out more beautifully than ever!

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