How to Applique Stems

Applique flower stems with needle and thread.

The flower is a traditional quilt applique motif. The beautiful colors of nature are often represented in fabric by flowers of all shapes, sizes and hues. Flower stems add a curved and elegant design element to the flower motif and are frequently used in appliqued quilt borders. Traditional needle-turned or freezer paper applique methods are not necessary for stems, which benefit from their standard size and shape. With a bit of preparation, flower stems can be quickly added to a floral applique pattern.

Things You'll Need

• Green or brown fabric
• Ruler
• Rotary cutter
• Self-healing mat
• Straight pins
• Sewing machine
• Iron
• Needle
• Thread

Instructions

1. Find the fabric bias at a diagonal angle between the fabric selvage and the fabric grain.

2. Measure the width of the completed stem. Double the amount and add 1/8 inch. Cut a strip of fabric on the bias to the computed width and as long as possible.

3. Square off the ends of the strip with the scissors.

4. Fold the strip in half lengthwise, with the right sides out. Sew a 1/8-inch seam at the open edge.

5. Iron the strip with the seam open and placed in the middle of the underside of the stem so the raw edges won't show. Cut the stem to the desired length.

6. Pin the stem to the base quilt pattern and, using very small hand-stitches, sew the stem to the quilt base on both long edges of the stem. Tuck the stem's end edges under and sew them to the base quilt.

References

• Quilting Works: Easy Needle Turn Applique 101
• Barbara Dieges Designs: Applique Techniques