I don't neccessarily like applique but I have figured out a way to get alot of the larger simple done??? anyway.. I will cut a template of the piece to be appliqued on cardstock or postcards from magazines..I will then place that on the backside of the fabric...I will cut at least 3/8 to 1/3" around the template..I will then turn that seam allowance over the template as you would do in English Paper Piecing and hand stitch around using a basting size stitch.I will spray starch and press the piece so that the edges to be sewn to the main piece are crisp and the gathered side lays flat. remove the stitches & template then you applique the whole thing to the fabric.....I've done this with round circles & hearts..it takes more time but the effort reflects in the neatness of the pieces.