Applique involves using pieces of fabric cut into shapes and securing them to a background fabric to create a finished design or image. The key steps in applique are: n Cutting fabric shapes using a pattern n Preparing the edges of the shapes either by turning under the edges and stitching in place, or using fusible web to fuse the edges to the background fabric n Arranging the shapes on the background fabric according to the pattern n Sewing the shapes onto the background with a straight or zigzag stitch n There are two main applique techniques – raw edge applique where the edges are not turned under, and turned edge applique where the edges are folded under before stitching.

What supplies do I need to applique a quilt?

Basically, you’ll need fabric, thread, scissors, and an iron. For the applique pieces you’ll need a variety of fabrics in different prints and colors. Some kind of thread to match or closely coordinate with your fabrics is necessary for sewing the applique shapes in place. Sharp scissors are essential for cutting out all the little fabric pieces smoothly. And an iron is a must to press your fabric pieces so they lay flat when appliqued .n

What sewing technique do I use for applique?

There are a few different methods for applique but some of the most popular are hand applique and machine blanket stitch applique. For hand applique you’ll stitch around the edges of each fabric shape by hand with a needle and coordinating thread. Machine blanket stitch involves using your sewing machine to blanket stitch around the applique pieces automatically, which can go a bit quicker than hand sewing. Nevertheless, some quilters enjoy the slower hand process.n

How do I prepare and position the applique shapes?

To get started, you’ll need to cut out all your applique fabric pieces with scissors. Then iron each shape to make the edges turn under by about 1/4 inch all around. After that you can lay out your applique placement on the quilt background fabric and use fabric glue or a temporary adhesive spray to hold the pieces in place as you sew. Making a tissue paper or template pattern is also sort of helpful for positioning identical applique elements.

What kind of thread should I use when appliqueing?

Most quilters recommend using thread that blends in well or “disappears” into the applique fabrics. Lightweight cotton or polyester threads resembling the applique material work amazing. According to my friend’s grandma who has appliqued for decades, she swears by 50 weight cotton thread in coordinating colors. But perhaps there’s no single right answer – you may need to experiment to see which thread looks best on your project. The main thing is to match the thread as closely as you can to the fabrics.n

How do I finish off applique raw edges?

There are a couple good options for dealing with the raw edges of your applique shapes after they’ve been sewn in place. You can turn under and hand stitch the edges as you work, or go around once more with a narrow zig zag stitch on your sewing machine. Another popular method is to use a decorative machine stitch like a buttonhole or satin stitch right at the edge to cover it up nicely. So in summary – turn, hand stitch, or cover with a decorative machine stitch to neaten those loose fabric edges.n

How do I wash and care for an appliqued quilt?

Washing an appliqued quilt requires some tender loving care to keep those hand sewn shapes from getting distorted. It’s best to wash the quilt by itself in a washing machine on a gentle or delicate cycle using a mild detergent. You can put the quilt in a pillowcase for added protection. Then lay it flat to air dry rather than putting it in the dryer, which can cause applique pieces to shift around. And be very careful when storing or displaying the quilt – try to avoid folding it at applique areas. With delicate handling, your beautiful handiwork should last for many years!n