How to Machine Quilt With Applique

Applique quilting is a technique where applique fabric pieces are fused onto foundation fabric blocks with an iron-on, fusible material. Next, the edges of the applique shapes are stitched around to securely adhere the fabrics together to create quilt blocks. Sewing these applique shapes can be done either by hand or by machine. The machine method is preferred by many quilters because it is faster and the stitches can be made more neatly and precisely.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fused applique quilt block
• Sewing machine (with new needle)
• Thread (color to match or contrast)
• Scissors

1. Place a new needle in your sewing machine. Size 70/10 is an all-purpose needle that will work well.

2. Place the quilt block into the sewing machine so that the applique shape is to the left of the presser foot. Set the sewing machine to sew a zigzag stitch..

3. Raise the needle and determine the outside right edge point that the needle will reach as it is sewing the stitch. Place the applique shape so that this outside right edge will be even with the right edge of the applique shape.

4. Set the stitch width to 1/8-inch and set the stitch length to between .5 and 1 millimeter.

5. Lower the needle at this outside edge and begin sewing by back stitching five straight stitches before beginning to zigzag stitch forward. Sew slowly and carefully around the shape making the stitches close together. They should not be so close together that the fabric bunches, however. Feed the fabric evenly.

6. Sew until you reach your starting point and stitch five straight stitches again to finish the stitching. Raise the needle and presser foot. Clip the threads.

7. Begin sewing around another shape using the same techniques, changing thread color if desired.

References

• Machine Applique