Hi all-

I am hoping you can share some tips with me. I decided to try out doing applique on my embroidery machine today. The design I chose stitched out great but I have stray threads. Here is what I did...


I had the machine do the first outline stitch

Then I put my fabric over that stitch

I had the machine do the stay stitch? then i trimmed my fabric as close to that as I could.

Next I let the machine zig zag then satin stitch it.

i still have strays ..... What did I do wrong? I cut as close as I could using my mini gingher scissors. Do I need special scissors or something?


Thanks Nikki

You do need to trim very close to the line but I have found that some sites designs are better than others. Also if you don't have the stabilizer layers correct.this can cause a problem. If you go to Kenny"s Corner at Embroidery Library you will find a tute on this as well as lots of great info.
If you need any help feel free to PM me.

Thanks I'll check it out.

I really like my duck bill applique scissors for trimming really close. Gingher's only makes righties, but there is a LH version available. Have to think of the name.

If the applique is not too too detailed, you can also hoop the applique fabric first. Stitch the outline. Take the fabric out of the hoop and cut right up to the stitch. Hoop background fabric, stitch the outline and use it as a placement for the applique fabric. Use washable school glue/glue stick to stick the applique down, then advance to the satin stitch.

Make sure that the applique piece is the correct size and doesn't over lap the stay stitches. You can spray it with temporary basting spray to help hold it in place.

When you cut out the applique there will be a few threads showing all of the way around. Some will take a permanent marker and color those thread bits :D:D:D

I use Wonder under or lite head bond first...no strays...I cut out the center of the WU or HB so I only have abt 1/2 for outer edge...Then do blanket stitch...