while I'm reading through the posts I saw one that makes me have a question. Its about machine applique. The quilt I was looking at was this one
http://www.quiltingboard.com/posts/list/24772.page
now are these done using interfacing or are they just put on and sewn around? If they're just put on and sewn around what about the fabric fraying over time thru the stitches? Sorry if this is a dumb question!

I always use fusible web on the back of the fabric. When placing the applique on top, I often do a satin stitch, when doing reverse applique, the same if it is a garment that will be washed and worn. It it is a wallhanging, I will use a blanket stitch or sometimes a straight stitch with a decorative stitch on top of that.

I have not done any applique yet but have watched alot of videos.
The method I like but would not work with intricate applique is where you sew the fusible web to the right side of the fabric pattern then cut a slit in the fusible and turn it right side out to fuse. This way there are no raw edges.
The hands pattern would work well for this method.

My newest favorite way of doing applique is to use a product called Misty Fuse. You iron it onto the back of the fabric (using a pressing sheet) and then you place it on your project misty fuse side down and press it again. I just do a straight stitch close to the edge of the applique and haven't had any problems with fraying.