How to Put on an Applique With the Sewing Machine

Choose a contrasting thread around the applique for a splash of color.

Stitching a pre-made applique to a piece of clothing or a sewing project is an easy way to add embellishment. Using a sewing machine to apply an applique is a simple process that even a novice sewer can accomplish.

Things You'll Need

• Applique
• Heat'n Bond Lite iron-on adhesive
• Pencil
• Scissors
• Ironing board
• Iron
• Fabric or clothing item
• Thread
• Sewing machine
• Clear presser foot
• Seam ripper

Instructions

1. Place the applique face down on the paper side of the Heat'n Bond Lite. Trace with a pencil.

2. Cut the shape out of the Heat'n Bond Lite.

3. Place the applique face down on the ironing board. Stack the Heat'n Bond Lite cutout on top of the applique with the shiny side down and the paper side up.

4. Turn the steam off on your iron.

5. Iron over the applique to fuse the Heat'n Bond Lite to the applique.

6. Peel the paper off of the applique.

7. Position the applique onto the item to which you are sewing it on. Smooth the applique down onto the fabric.

8. Iron over the applique. Apply a moderate amount of pressure while ironing.

9. Thread your sewing machine and bobbin according to the manufacturer's instructions. Attach the clear presser foot to the machine.

10. Set your machine on a "buttonhole" or satin stitch.

11. Place your fabric on the machine and lower the presser foot. Beginning on the right side of the applique, stitch along the edge of the applique fabric, encompassing the raw edge as you go. Pivot around corners by raising the presser foot as needed.

12. Stitch all the way around the design. Pull the top and bottom threads to at least 3 inches when you are done. Clip the threads.

13. Pull the upper thread through to the back of the fabric with a seam ripper. Tie the top and bottom threads in a knot and clip the ends.

Tips & Warnings

• Creating smooth, consistent stitches takes lots of practice. Do not get discouraged as it gets easier every time you do it.

• A clear presser foot is not mandatory for this project. It does, however, allow you to see where your stitches are going on the edge of the applique. It helps you follow the shape more accurately.

• Instead of purchasing pre-made appliques, you can make your own applique shapes using the Heatn' Bond Lite.

References

• Sew, Mama, Sew: Simple Machine Applique
• Sew Like My Mom: Applique Basics