How to Make Applique Shirts Without a Sewing Machine
Rescue that old, tired shirt from the garbage pile and breathe some new life into it using a well-placed applique. Dressing up forgotten shirts is so easy to do, you don't even need a sewing machine. You don't have to wait until you are bored with your clothes to jazz them up either. Once you are familiar with the technique, you can just open up your closet and pick out any shirt that needs a bit of a lift.
Instructions
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Draw your applique design onto a piece of paper, then cut out the shape with sharp scissors. For best results, use simple shapes like block letters, geometric shapes or numbers.
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Turn the cut-out drawing over so it is backwards and lay it on your applique fabric. The right side of the fabric should be facing down, with the drawing resting on the wrong side.
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Trace the shape of the drawing onto the wrong side of the fabric, then cut out the shape. Repeat the same process with the iron-on fusible interfacing by tracing the backward shape onto the paper-backed side of the interfacing. Work carefully to ensure the web and fabric shapes are consistent with each other.
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Lay the fabric shape right side down, then place the interfacing shape on top with the paper side facing up. Line up the edges of the two shapes so they are perfectly stacked.
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Iron the two shapes with medium heat to bond the fabric and interfacing together. Peel the paper backing off when you are ready to use it and place the applique where you want to attach it. Use the iron to bond the applique in place.
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Tips & Warnings
Branch out with your appliques and apply them to anything from jeans to jackets and even bags and purses. If the item is made of fabric and is heat-safe, you can apply an applique to it.
Instead of making a drawing for your applique, cut out different shapes and patterns from lace for a sophisticated and feminine applique.
Do not use an iron on fabrics without testing them first. Some fabrics will shrink, burn or melt when exposed to iron heat.
References
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
