Water-Soluble Topping
19" x 100 Yds - Roll
Water-Soluble Topping (WST) is a thin, clear film used on top of fabric to prevent stitches from sinking into texture and to sharpen small details. At 20 microns thick, it lies flat, tears away cleanly after stitching, and any remaining residue dissolves with moisture—leaving crisp lettering, smooth satin columns, and clean edges on textured or lofty surfaces.
Key Features
- Clear film topping for use on top of the garment (not a backing)
- 20-micron thickness balances coverage, clarity, and easy removal
- Prevents stitch sink on terry, fleece, sherpa, pique, rib knits, and textured wovens
- Improves small text, fine detail, and applique borders
- Tears away cleanly; residue dissolves with water or steam
- Safe for most fabrics; test for colorfastness
Application Instructions
- Hoop garment with the appropriate backing beneath (tearaway or cutaway)
- Lay topping on top of the hooped area, covering the full stitch field
- Optional: light tack-down stitch or temporary adhesive to prevent shifting
- Embroider as normal
- Tear away excess film gently
- Remove residue with a light mist/steam, damp cloth, or rinse (cool or warm water); air dry or tumble low
- Tips: for very plush fabrics, use two layers; do not iron directly, use a press cloth
Applications
- Towels/terry, robes, fleece, minky, sherpa
- Piqué polos, rib knits, textured jerseys
- Corduroy and other textured wovens
- Small lettering, satin outlines, applique borders
What It’s Not / Where Not to Use
- Not a replacement for backing, always use stabilizer underneath
- Avoid projects that will never be exposed to moisture/steam (residual film won't dissolve)
- Test on delicate finishes and non-colorfast fabrics before production
Storage & Handling
- Store sealed in a cool, dry place; humidity can start dissolving the film
- Keep sheets flat or rolled to prevent creasing