Bree123

So interesting to read the responses here. I remove the freezer paper first, but even if I were to leave it in for later, I would probably just cut a slit in the background rather than cutting the background away entirely. But it does make sense to want to cut away probably all but 1/4-3/8" of the background fabric for hand quilting. I've done hand quilting through fused applique with 3-4 layers + the background, batting & backing and it is insanely difficult. Sometimes I just had to take only a single stitch at a time -- now I know why. Thanks to Janet for explaining the benefit with hand quilting -- I'm definitely going to give trimming down the background a try before my next hand quilting project.

ManiacQuilter2

As Prism99 mentioned, there is a variety of techniques for applique. Normally, even with machine quilting, you don't go over an applique. You may outline a smaller applique on top of another in order to give some depth to the applique.

Luv Quilts and Cats

If the background shows through the fabric of the applique, and I don't like it, I will cut it out. I did a snowman applique on a dark blue background and it showed through the white of the snowman. So I cut it out. I think it is a case by case basis and what looks good to you.

AZ Jane

Exactly what I was thinking, if machine quilting, leave it, it will be fine. If hand quilting, I definitely remove any additional bulk I have to quilt through. I can just oil a machine but my hands are a different case.

RedGarnet222

I usually leave it. But, I am making a quilt now that has a four patch and then a circle appliqued to the center of the seam lines. I don't like how the seams look under the circle, so I will carefully cut away when I go to quilt it. Not before, because I think it would be a saggy mess. I can see how leaving it would be a mistake in this instance even though I am going to machine quilt it.
I suppose what I am trying to explain is, use your own judgement. In this case I think the seams are too prominent underneath and it would actually cause wear to the circle applique with use.

soccertxi

I have cut away and not cut away. I did quilt for a lady and quilted on the applique. I would use it for definition (in this case I put veins in a leaf) and if the applique is large, to keep in from puffing out too much.

annette1952

I have never cut away but I'm sure there are some quilts you might have to. I'm not a hand quilter but I can see why they would for sure. Also sometimes I quilt over the applique but I would rather not unless it is a big applique & your batting requires it. I have done several applique quilts but I'm still in the learning stages. I watch a lot of You Tube videos & also listen to all the board members. Lots of info right here with all of the talented quilters. Great bunch!

mojo11

I don't trim behind my applique. Have been told it weakens the structure of the quilt. I hand quilt and put just a little quilting on the designs unless the pieces are small.

Claire123

I have only done a small amount of applique and did not cut away the backing. I've done some paper/foundation piecing and did not cut away the backing for that either.