What is flagging in embroidery?

Fabric bouncing up and down with the needle as it stitches, because it isn't held firmly enough against the needle plate.

Machines and thread

Flagging, explained

Flagging causes skipped stitches, loops, poor registration and birdnests, and it is most common with loosely hooped fabric, floated items and the curved front of caps. Hoop the fabric and stabilizer firmly, add a layer of stabilizer or an adhesive backing, and, where the machine allows, set the presser foot just clear of the fabric. The problems and fixes guide covers the other usual suspects.

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