Am sewing a baby blanket. Fleece backed and cotton on other side. I am planning on appliqueing on the cotton side. What I wonder, have not tried. Can a lightweight batting be put under the bit of appliqueing while I applique it, then cut away. I would like this applique to stand out a bit since most of this side is plain. Anyone done this? Then I would sandwich it together and quilt with straight lines only. Thanks for any input.

Yes! I like to do this to make the applique stand out. I suggest not using a batting that can't stand up to a cotton heat setting though. I use a layer or two of cotton batting, then if I want to press the blocks/quilt top, I don't have to worry about the higher heat setting ruining a poly batting :wink: :D:D:D

Thanks for reply. To keep this straight, the applique is on top, then the cotton and the batting under the cotton layer? 3 layers, right? You cut it out then, right? Thanks.

This techique is called 'trapunto'. Do a search on this board, there are lots of postings.

Thanks, I should have known that one. Will look it up.

The easiest way to do it is probably to add the extra layer of batting after you have done the applique, but before layering. Place a piece of batting underneath your applique, then using water-soluble thread (at least in the top) machine stitch all around the applique about 1/4-inch from the applique's edge. Carefully cut away the excess batting close to the stitching line. Layer your quilt as usual, and quilt around the outside of the applique shape (to hold the extra batting in place permanently). When you wash the quilt, the water-soluble thread will disappear.

Superior Threads sells two grades of water-soluble thread. Alternatively, you can use regular thread when you baste the batting in place; just use longer stitches to make them easier to remove when the quilt is finished.

The most difficult part is cutting away the excess batting because you have to be very careful not to nip into your top fabric while you do it.

Also, it is recommended to use a high-loft poly for the extra layer of puffiness. Just be sure not to iron it.

Actually, there's an easier way to do it.

Cut the applique shape out of batting, spray the batting with basting spray, and position the batting shape under the applique shape (after the quilt top is finished). If you are careful when layering, this should be enough to hold it in place until you quilt around the applique.

That method looks like it would be easy to do. The only problem is quilting aside from straight lines with fleece for the back can be a problem. Thanks for the suggestion, will keep that in mind for future projects.