Explanation
Underlay stitches are stitched before the visible top stitches (such as satin or fill stitches). They are not visible in the final design but are crucial for embroidery quality.
They provide:
- Stability: Secure fabric and stabilizer, prevent shifting
- Evenness: Smooth the surface for neat top stitches
- Loft: Raise the top stitches slightly for more dimension
- Grip: Improve adhesion on slippery or stretchy fabrics
Types of underlay
- Edge run underlay (running stitch along the contour)
- Zig-zag underlay (diagonal stitches for extra support)
- Crosshatch underlay (mesh underlay for dense fill areas)
Uses
Underlay stitches are generated by embroidery software during digitizing.
Proper underlay choice depends on fabric, thread, and the required stitch density for the design.