-
Step 1
Decide on the design you want to appliqué and choose the fabric. Cotton and cotton blends work well for appliqué because they are easy to press and fold. If you are a beginner, start with a simple design and work towards the layered, more complicated appliqués as you become more experienced.
-
Step 2
Trace your design onto the back of the fabric you have chosen for your appliqué. Use a fabric pencil or tracing wheel, but be precise when drawing the shape.
-
Step 3
Add a ¼-inch seam allowance around the shape before you cut it out. At first, it may be easier to draw this seam allowance onto the fabric before cutting so you will have a visual guide. As you become more experienced, you may be able to omit this step.
-
Step 4
Clip around the shape by making small cuts into the seam allowance. Avoid cutting any deeper than the ¼-inch you added around the edge. This will make it easier to turn the seam allowance under and help it to lay smooth and flat.
-
Step 5
Turn the ¼-inch seam under, baste around the edges to hold it in place and press it with a steam iron. The iron setting should be set to correspond with the fabric you have chosen.
-
Step 6
Position the appliqué where you want it and pin it around the edges to hold it in place while you sew it on.
-
Step 7
Decide which sewing technique you want to use to sew your turned edge appliqué in place. For the beginner, the basic hidden stitch is a good place to start. To do this stitch, bring your threaded needle up through the fabric and come out at the edge of the appliqué fold. Take a stitch horizontally, with the thread above the needle, at the edge but not catching the appliqué. Take another stitch, with the thread below the thread, below the needle that catches the appliqué edge. Repeat these stitches around the piece. These are small stitches and should not show when they are finished. It may take a little practice to accomplish this sewing technique, but the result is a nice secure appliqué.
