What is hoop burn (hoop marks) in embroidery?

A ring of crushed, shiny or creased fibers left where the hoop clamped the fabric, most visible on velvet, nylon, performance knits and dark fabrics.

Stabilizers and hooping

Hoop burn (hoop marks), explained

Hoop burn usually comes from hooping tighter than the fabric needs or leaving it in the hoop for a long time. A light steam, a wash or brushing the nap often lifts it, though delicate fabrics can stay marked. Many embroiderers avoid it by floating the item on adhesive stabilizer or by using a magnetic hoop, which clamps without the same crushing ring; the hooping guide covers prevention and removal.

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