How to Applique With a Satin Stitch

An applique is a piece of fabric that is applied to another piece of fabric, either with an adhesive or with needle and thread. The zigzag stitch is usually adequate to sew on a applique, but sometimes you need a stronger attachment. The satin stitch on your sewing machine makes long stitches very close together. Besides being stronger, it adds a decorative border to your applique.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric
• Applique
• Scissors
• Fusible interfacing
• Shirt or other item of clothing
• Sewing machine
• Thread

Instructions

1. Cut out the applique design. The design can be a detail from a fabric pattern or your own shaped or embroidered design. You can also purchase pre-made embroidered appliques.

2. Place the applique face down on an ironing board and place the fusible interfacing on top of it. Follow the manufacturer's directions to iron it into place. Remove the paper backing. Cut off any extra material around the applique. The fusible interfacing will stiffen the applique so it will not have wrinkles or puckers when it is sewn into place.

3. Place the applique where you want it on the shirt or other garment and pin it into place.

4. Thread the sewing machine with the color thread you have selected for the applique's border.

5. Set the sewing machine to the satin-stitch setting according to the machine's instruction manual.

6. Sew around the edge of the applique, removing pins as you go so the needle does not go over them. About half the length of your stitch should be on the applique side and half should be on the garment side. When you have gone all the way around the applique, double back a couple times to secure the stitches in place.

7. Cut the excess threads.