A question from a newby about applique
 

I've quilted minor things for years but now I would like to try my hand at a small piece of Hawaiian quilting. Other times that I've appliqued, I have better luck if I applique on a background that has already been quilted. What I was wondering, is it correct to applique on a quilted background or should you only applique onto a single piece of fabric? I want to learn the correct way but my work looks crappy when I do it this way. Any help or suggestions? Thank you

Welcome to the board. I would also like to make a hawaiian quilt so I'll be watching this thread to see what others say.

if your work looks better on quilted fabric then by all means go ahead- after all it is your project- I wonder though---if it is already quilted do you not stitch all the way through when appliqueing? or do the applique stitches add to the quilting stitches on the back? I would love to see some of your applique projects you have done this way. there is nothing wrong with trying/finding your own techniques for projects- if you achieve the outcome you wanted/like go for it...then come back & teach it to us. :)

Typically applique is done on a single layer of fabric, not on already quilted fabric. There are a lot of techniques that can help with applique. If you could post some photos of the problems you have encountered, or even describe them, someone on the board will likely be able to help you.

http://www.prqc.com/videos.htm

link to 2 fabric applique by Pacific rim quilts. She sells this video that teaches how to do needle turn applique. It is awesome and she specializes in the hawaiian appliqué.

Hawaiian quilts are traditionally echo quilted and not cross hatched. There is absolutely nothing wrong with starting your own tradition with using prequilted fabric.....can't wait to see your finished work of art!

I love the video from Pacific Rim. It was very helpful learning and being able to go back to watch when I needed refresher. The dragonfly wall hanging comes with the video so you won't have to buy a pattern too, unless you want to :-)

I don't think there is any one "right" or "wrong" way to applique if you are happy with your work I don't think it matter is if its pre-quilted or not.

Happy Stitching :-)