This month's technique uses a modern day convienceto create a traditional look. If you are anything like Wendy,the thought of applique doesn't cause great excitement, havingto carefully turn under each edge and fumbling with very smallneedle. But, often you don't want to resort to the idea of fusiblematerials becuase they don't produce the same look. A new, inexpensivetechnique was brought to QD's attention not so long ago. It won'tcost you anything and you helping the environment while you sew.
Instead of throwing away those used fabric softnersheets, throw them into the dryer a few extra times to ensurethat all of the chemicals are out of them. Next select your pattern.and trace it out onto the wrong side of the fabric you wish toapplique (be sure trace the exact size you wish the pattern tobe). Then, lay the fabric and fabric softner sheet together, withthe traced pattern on top. Now, stitch completely around the pattern,using you sewing machine. Trim away all but 1/4 inch of the excessmaterial and sheet. Now, cut a slit in the center of the fabricsheet, turn your piece so the right side of the fabric is facingup. You are now ready to applique the piece on to your backgroundfabric. You can do this by hand, or pin the pattern securely anduse one of your machine's decorative stitches.
You can use a fusible interfacing as well. This way,you can then fuse your piece to the backing to ensure an evenmachine stitching.
Below is a simple flower in honor of spring that youcan try this tip out on. Just click on it to open it to a seperatepage, print it out, cut out the flower and trace around it! Onceyou have stitched it to your background, you can add embelishmentsto it, such as the stamen and extra color in the middle. Be sureto add a stem either with bias tape or a fancy stitch. Howeveryou do it, have fun!
Elna - http://www.elna.com
World wide quiltingpage - http://quilt.com/Quilt
Stitches andBytes - http://www.stitchesbytes.com