So Many Ways to Applique
Fiber arts are constantly changing, old practices are rediscovered and reimagined. If you can't afford to buy new, repairs need to be made. What begins as a utilitarian work is elevated to an art form. The technique of applique originated as a necessity-a way to repair torn clothes and household items. Simple repairs become more elaborate-a style is formed. Applique has become more than a method of repair. It's used to decorate quilts, table linens, decorator's pillows, wall hangings, etc. Fine hand-applique is an art, but there are quite a few different methods to choose from.
Fiber arts are constantly changing, old practices are rediscovered and reimagined. If you can't afford to buy new, repairs need to be made. What begins as a utilitarian work is elevated to an art form. The technique of applique originated as a necessity-a way to repair torn clothes and household items. Simple repairs become more elaborate-a style is formed. Applique has become more than a method of repair. It's used to decorate quilts, table linens, decorator's pillows, wall hangings, etc. Fine hand-applique is an art, but there are quite a few different methods to choose from.
One of the newest and simplest techniques is machine applique using fusible web.
One of the newest and simplest techniques is machine applique using fusible web.
Fusible web comes in a roll, one side is paper and the other side has a manmade fiber that melts when exposed to heat.
Fusible web comes in a roll, one side is paper and the other side has a manmade fiber that melts when exposed to heat.
Trace the design on the paper side of the fusible web. Cut close to your design, there is no need for seam allowance. It's simple, just iron the cut-outs on the wrong side of your applique fabric.
Trace the design on the paper side of the fusible web. Cut close to your design, there is no need for seam allowance. It's simple, just iron the cut-outs on the wrong side of your applique fabric.
Press with a hot iron, paper side up with the fusible web side against the back of the applique fabric. Peel off the paper and again press the applique fabric to the background fabric. This will fuse the applique piece in place until stitched down permanently.
Press with a hot iron, paper side up with the fusible web side against the back of the applique fabric. Peel off the paper and again press the applique fabric to the background fabric. This will fuse the applique piece in place until stitched down permanently.
Use a sewing machine to place a beautiful stitch on the edges. A simple satin stitch or any other fancy stitch to finish the edges. There are so many different choices. You can also just stitch the outline and leave the edges raw. Raw-edge applique is becoming more popular.
Use a sewing machine to place a beautiful stitch on the edges. A simple satin stitch or any other fancy stitch to finish the edges. There are so many different choices. You can also just stitch the outline and leave the edges raw. Raw-edge applique is becoming more popular.