How to Make an Applique With a Fabric Square

Draw simple applique shapes, such as stars, by hand.

Small fabric squares, or remnants, can often be bought inexpensively in haberdashery or craft stores, and many sewing enthusiasts also build up a stash of fabric left over from their sewing projects. Small squares of fabric are ideal to use in applique projects because applique patches are among the smallest of sewing projects, meaning you can use up squares of fabric that are too small for any other use.

Things You'll Need

• Computer paper
• Pencil
• Scissors
• Pins

Instructions

1. Draw, or download from the Internet, a template for your applique shape. Measure both sides of your fabric square to make sure the applique template will fit within the square.

2. Cut out the paper template, then pin it into the center of your fabric square.

3. Cut the fabric around the outside edge of the paper template, then remove the pins and take the paper off the fabric.

Tips & Warnings

• Use an iron-on, strengthening interfacing on the back of the fabric square before attaching and cutting out the template. This prevents fine fabrics from fraying, and gives the fabric extra substance and body, making it easier to work with.

• Use pinking shears to give fabric appliques a fancy edge add further discourage fraying.

• Draw templates for fabric appliques by hand on plain computer paper. Alternatively, you can trace images from books or magazines.

• Wash the fabric square before cutting out the applique shape if you intend to wash whatever item you sew the shape to, for instance, clothing. This prevent the applique from shrinking and distorting when the garment is washed later.