Steam-A-Seam2 for applique vs ziz-zag
 

I'm putting a couple applique flowers on a quilt. I used Steam-A-Seam2 and it looks great. Do I need to stitch around the applique (ziz-zag) to make it stay? I'm having a difficult time ziz-zaging around as it looks terrible and I've taken it out twice. ( I have an old machine). Could I use invisable thread or will that melt? Any suggestions out there as I'm very discourraged as I'm almost done with the quilt. Thank you.

If you have already bonded it well - maybe you could just use a straight stitch all around the applique, just a bit inside the raw edge. An experienced quilter at my LQS said she was going to do that to one of her projects.

I just did this with a fall wallhanging that I am working on and I love the results. I used Steam A Seam 2 on mine also.

as long as it says it can be sewn through. you don't want to gunk up your needle.

Steam a seam does have a very strong bond to the fabric... but it will over time ( and how hot the dryer is) start to come loose. If you are having trouble with the zig zag , do try some inviasble thread. HIGHLY recommend you do a test piece using the fabrics and steam a seam exactly how you will be stitching on the project. This is so you can get the stitch lenght and tensions adjusted before you try it on your project. A stablizer can help keep your stitches where you want them.

I do applique all the time using steam a seam, but I use embroidery floss and do the button hole stitch. I love the way it looks!

Several quilting friends do NOT do the sewing around their appliques ... I just can't not do the sewing. Guess it's just me. I do what I am comfortable with.

ali

Well, I certainly would stitch around the applique pieces...I never quite trust the edges not to come up and I also think it makes it look nicer. If you are not happy with your zig sag stitch then use a blanket stitch or another decorative stitch on your machine. Be sure to use tear away stabilizer behind the fabric. That will also help make your stitching look nicer.

I agree with Pam B-I just don't feel that the Steam a Seam is a strong enough bond by itself.

I used Steam a Seam Lite and didn't sew around it and sent it to my long armer. Well, she sewed around it. She said that she worried it would come loose. So from then on, I have always done a buttonhole around all my fusible applique.