All Instructions

Doctor Side split seam

Split Seam Bow Embroidery Tutorial

For more guidance, check out this video featuring a football design—the technique applies to all split seam projects:

A finished split seam bow design embroidered onto a garment.

Step 1: Stabilizer Preparation

  • Hoop a water-soluble stabilizer in the embroidery hoop. A non-woven, fabric-type stabilizer is preferred.
  • Use two layers if you are new to this type of project or are working with a delicate fabric. Experienced users may only need one layer.

Step 2: Position Seam

  • Stitch the outline of the bow (the Position Seam) directly onto the stabilizer. This marks where the design will go.

The bow outline stitched onto the water-soluble stabilizer.

  • Thread Tip: Match the thread color to your final bow color, as this outline will be visible from the back of the garment.

Step 3: Garment Placement

  • Pause the machine. Place your garment on the stitched outline, positioning it precisely.
  • Secure the garment with pins or tape. Avoid holding it by hand to prevent injury.

Step 4: Tack-Down Stitch

The garment tacked down in the hoop with the tack-down stitch.

  • Stitch the tack-down seam to secure the garment.
  • Trim the appliqué fabric close to the stitch line for a clean finish.

Step 5: Cutting the Garment for the Split

  • Carefully cut the garment along the marked line where the bow split will be.
  • Cut close to the seam—the satin stitch will reinforce it later.
  • Complete any additional decorative and appliqué steps if they are included in your specific design. This design includes the bow details.

Cutting the garment along the split line with small, sharp scissors.

A close-up of the cut split in the garment.Another view of the carefully cut split, ready for the satin stitch.

Step 6: Decorative Edge Finish

  • Return the hoop to the machine to stitch the finishing satin edge.
  • Thread Tip: Use the same color for your top and bobbin threads so that the underside of the bow matches.

Step 7: Stabilizer Removal

  • Once the embroidery is complete, trim the excess stabilizer.
  • Rinse the garment thoroughly to completely remove the remaining stabilizer. This will result in a soft, flexible finish.

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