How to Machine Applique

Use machine embroidery thread for best results.

Machine applique is used to add colorful designs to your clothing and linens. Cut pictures from solid or print fabric and applique them onto T-shirts. Pair these shirts with pants made from a coordinating fabric for an adorable kid's outfit. You can also make up your own designs. You can even use applique to patch holes and cover stains, extending the life of your garments.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric
• Paper-backed fusible web
• Iron
• Pressing cloth
• Scissors
• Tear-away interfacing
• Sewing machine
• Machine embroidery thread

Instructions

1. Cut out your applique pieces leaving a 1/4-inch border all around. Iron paper-backed fusible webbing to the back of the pieces following the manufacturer's directions.

2. Iron the applique pieces onto your garment, again following the manufacturer's directions. Cut a piece of tear-away interfacing slightly larger than your applique and pin or baste it to the reverse side of your fabric, behind the ironed-on applique..

3. Thread your machine with embroidery thread. Set your machine to sew a 1/4-inch-wide zigzag stitch with a short stitch length.

4. Sew slowly around the outside edge of the applique. Your stitches should be close enough to completely cover the edge of the fabric.

5. Turn corners by sewing to the outside edge at the end of the corner. Leave the needle down in the fabric. Raise the pressure foot and turn the fabric. Lower the pressure foot and continue sewing.

6. Tear away the interfacing on the back when you have finished.

Tips & Warnings

• Pin your applique pieces to your garment to check their placement before you iron them on.

References

• Stitch Me Up: Applique, Satin Stitch

Resources

• New Mexico State University Extension: Sewing Machine Applique