I am doing my first applique quilt. I am doing hand applique. For the most part it looks OK but every once in a while some of the threads pop out on the sides. Am I doing something wrong? How can I avoid this? Is it just something that happens? Help

I hand applique also i found out you have to tighten your stitch and make sure you don't catch your stitch to close to the edge

What type of thread are you using? The No. 60 Mettler is good for me. I had a lot of trouble with navy blue in my last piece though and I later found out that darker dyes can make the thread heavier. Make sure you just catch a couple of fibers in the fabric when you make the stitch. Good luck!

I was taught to take a couple of small satin stitches, really close together, in areas where your fabric may fray, usually in concave curves. Is that the area that your having trouble with? Don't worry about them showing. Once the applique is complete and the quilt is quilted, you don't notice them.

I hope this helps you! Helen

Make your stitches very small. The reverse side of your project should look like "chicken scratchin" . . . very very fine and short stitches, close together.

Since this is your first attempt to applique, do not get discouraged. It takes time and you will get better. I promise.

Remember when you are ready to press, place your work face down on a terry towel and press slightly. You can use steam. Do not scrub. You will be so pleased with your results once you have pressed.

Suzanne

Small stitches is the answer. Everyone learns differently, I use a small 'betweens' needle so I can see and control better. Others use longer needles, it depends on how you feel better about control of the needle. Don't expect perfection, allow your work to be what it wants to be.

Happy Quilting,
Sharon

I always use fuseable for all my appliques, By hand or machine, Wether I want the edge turned or not. Depending on what effect I want. I use a small needle and just catch it, and small space between. I just finished a snowman family quilt, applique. Most of it by machine but the hats and neck scarfs where all done by hand, to create that raised effect. Take it slow and relax, It will come out great, You'll see.

Loretta,

If you press it from the top side, you will flatten your applique. When you do it from the back, you are actually pressing the background which tends to pucker when it is stitched. Your appliqued pieces will still maintain their somewhat three-dimensional appearance.

Also, do not press until the entire block is completed, i.e., pressing after each piece is stitched into place.

Try it both ways and see the difference. Please report back once you've done this and tell us what you experience.

Thanks for asking. Suzanne