How to Crochet Applique Teardrop Shapes

Almost any crocheted shape or small object can also be successfully used in applique.

Crocheting appliques of any shape should be easy even for a novice. Ideally, a crafter should use a small-gauge yarn and crochet hook, maximizing the number of knots in the pattern so that the resulting fabric to be appliqued has a fine tooth to it, and will most readily take to the applique adhesive.

Things You'll Need

• Yarn
• Crochet hooks
• Tapestry needle
• Adhesive backing
• Scissors
• Interfacing
• Thread
• Sewing machine

Instructions

1. Crochet your foundation chain, beginning at the bottom of the teardrop shape, working for the appropriate amount of stitches until you have the desired size.

2. Add four additional chains alongside the foundation chain, increasing the length of each chain by one stitch on either side.

3. Fashion all subsequent chains by decreasing one stitch on either side, until the final shape terminates into a point.

4. Fasten off the shape, and weave the tail of the yarn back through the last chain.

5. Place the finished shape atop the adhesive backing and trim the backing to size.

6. Iron the shape onto the fabric backing, using the settings recommended on the adhesive packaging. Allow the applique to cool.

7. Slide a sheet of interfacing beneath the fabric and the shape, and set both underneath the foot of your sewing machine.

8. Sew the applique to the fabric using a satin stitch around the border of the crocheted shape.

Tips & Warnings

• Though it is not strictly necessary to sew the adhesive onto the fabric, doing so will ensure that the applique stays in place far longer than relying on the adhesive backing alone.