How to Do Machine Appliqué

While hand quilting was the method used by our grandmothers, machine quilting is faster, more efficient and may be better suited to modern life. Using your sewing machine to attach appliqués to your quilt blocks will save you time, energy and pierced fingers. It is also a relatively simple technique that will yield beautiful results.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fabric
• Sewing scissors
• Iron and ironing board
• Spray starch
• Sewing pins
• Sewing machine
• Thread that matches the appliqué

1. Cut the desired appliqués from the fabric you have chosen. Carefully press a 3/16 inch seam allowance toward the wrong side of the fabric. Spray with starch and press again.

2. Place the appliqué in the desired position on the background square and pin it carefully.

3. Set your sewing machine for the desired stitch, a narrow zig zag or satin stitch often looks lovely on appliquéd quilt blocks.

4. Stitch slowly and carefully on your first few blocks. This will allow you to get used to your machine, your fabric and the way they work together.

5. Press your completed appliqué quilt blocks before sewing your quilt top together.

Tips & Warnings

• Take the time to sew a sample block before cutting out all your appliqués and blocks. This will allow you to preview the block and make any desired changes.
• At the beginning and end of each line of sewing, back stitch for half an inch to "lock" your sewing and keep it from unraveling.