How to Back Your Embroidery hoop

Once you’re all done stitching, you’ll want to back your hoop to keep your art secure.

There are many backing methods, and you can certainly choose your favorite!

Some embroidery artists use glue, others use felt, and some use scrapbook paper. You can find many excellent backing methods on the internet, and there are several fabulous YouTube videos on backing hoops! Personally, I like to use glue, felt, and fabric. I’ve included instructions for this method below.

Step One

Gather your materials. You’ll need your hoop, felt, fabric, sharp scissors, craft glue, and a marker.

Step Two

Using the inside of the hoop as a stencil, trace a circle on your felt. Then, trace another circle on your fabric. Cut out your felt and fabric circles. Put the inner hoop back on your embroidery. Be sure your embroidery is taut and everything is lined up to your satisfaction. (You won’t be able to easily adjust the embroidery after you’ve finished the backing.)

Step Three

Place the felt on the backside of the fabric. (The felt will keep your fabric from showing through; this is especially important if you used a light color fabric for your embroidery.)

Step Four

Glue the sides of the embroidery fabric to the hoop.

Step Five

Place your fabric on top of the felt. Glue the edges only. Allow to dry.

Step Six

Admire your finished hoop!