Sewing Applique to Backing

Applique can be used on virtually anything, from everyday clothes to holiday ornaments.

Applique is a sewn-on ornamental needlework or fabric cutout forming patterns or pictures, and is often completed in total before being attached to the backing fabric. This ensures that raw edges are not exposed and decreases the likelihood that the applique will later unravel or separate from the backing fabric. All of the items necessary to transfer an applique onto a backing fabric are available at major craft supply retailers.

Prepping the Applique

Place the finished applique over a sheet of iron-on adhesive backing. Using an X-Acto knife, carefully cut through the backing around the applique. Pin the iron-on backing to the applique, and carefully arrange them both atop the backing fabric where desired. Begin ironing the applique in place, using the setting specified on the adhesive backing's package. Different backing fabric types will often require different settings. Remove the pins so that the entire applique can be thoroughly ironed, and allow the applique to dry and set when finished.

Prepping Your Backing Fabric and Machine

Stabilize your applique by applying a sheet of interfacing on the wrong side of the fabric backing, so that the interfacing exceeds the border of the applique on all sides by at least an inch. Also thread your sewing machine with a color matching the applique thread, or with an appropriate border color if desired, and line the foot of your sewing machine up so that your sewing will begin on the outermost portion of the applique.

Sewing and Finishing

Use a satin or zigzag stitch to secure the applique to the backing fabric, and if you must use a zigzag stitch, adjust your machine so that the spaces between the zigzags are as small as possible. Trim the threads from your sewing machine when finished; it is usually recommended to trim from the right side first. Carefully peel the interfacing away from the back of the fabric, using only your hands. The sewing machine needle should have perforated the sheet so that it peels readily from the applique. If it does not, simply use your hands to gently tear it away.

Care for Appliqued Items

Always machine wash appliqued items on the gentle cycle, using cold water and mild detergent. Whenever possible, allow them to air-dry rather than machine-dry. This will ensure that your applique will last in prime condition as long as possible, without peeling or separating from the backing fabric.

References

• "Mastering Machine Applique"; Harriet Hargrave; 2002