Is 505 Spray Safe for Embroidery Machines?

If you embroider, quilt, or appliqué, you’ve heard of 505 Temporary Adhesive Spray. It’s a go-to tool for stabilizing fabric, floating garments, and speeding up embroidery workflows. But if you’ve ever wondered whether 505 Spray is safe for your embroidery machine, you’re not alone—this is one of the most common questions we hear from stitchers.

The short answer: Yes, 505 Spray is safe for embroidery machines when used correctly. In fact, it’s trusted by long-arm quilters, commercial embroidery shops, and home sewists around the world. But like anything adhesive-based, technique matters—using too much or spraying in the wrong place can lead to buildup on hoops, needles, or machine parts.

Why 505 Spray Is Considered Safe

505 Spray is designed specifically for fabric—not hardware. It’s a low-tack, temporary adhesive that:

• Does not gum up needles when applied correctly
• Does not oversaturate fabrics or stabilizers
• Dries quickly and cleanly
• Does not transfer onto machine components when used sparingly

Most issues people run into with adhesive buildup are caused by overspray—not the product itself.

How to Use 505 Spray Safely With Embroidery Machines

1. Spray the Fabric, Not the Machine

Always spray away from the machine. Use a cardboard box, tabletop spray area, or a dedicated misting station so the adhesive stays on the stabilizer—not on your equipment.

2. Use a Light, Even Mist

505 is powerful. You only need a thin coat. If the stabilizer feels “wet” or overly tacky, too much was used.

3. Let It Sit for a Few Seconds

Give the spray 5–10 seconds to settle before placing your fabric. This reduces transfer and keeps things clean.

4. Refresh the Tack Only When Needed

You don't need to re-spray constantly. A little goes a long way and helps keep hoops and needles residue-free.

What If You Get Adhesive on Your Needle or Hoop?

Even with perfect technique, a little residue can happen—especially on high-volume projects. This is normal and easy to fix.

DK5 Glue Remover: The Industry Standard

If you notice stickiness on hoops, needles, presser feet, or machine beds, DK5 Glue Remover is your best friend. It dissolves adhesive instantly without leaving residue.

Here’s why pros keep DK5 at every machine:

• Removes needle gumming
• Cleans overspray on hoops
• Dissolves sticky buildup
• Evaporates cleanly without harming fabric or machine surfaces

How to Use DK5 Safely

• Spray a small amount onto a lint-free cloth (never directly onto the machine)
• Wipe the affected area gently
• Let the part air-dry for a few seconds
• Repeat only if necessary—DK5 works fast

Is 505 Spray Safe for Long-Term Machine Health?

Yes—when used properly. Many embroidery machine manufacturers demonstrate projects using adhesive sprays in official tutorials.

The key is simple: use it correctly and keep your hoops and needles clean.

Bottom Line

505 Spray is safe, widely used, and one of the most trusted temporary adhesives in the sewing world. If you avoid overspray and clean your equipment occasionally with DK5, your machine—and your projects—will stay in great shape.