I almost always do fusible with machine blanket stitch. I havent had any problems yet with them not staying down. My mother made my 3 girls Sunbonnett Sue quilts when they were little so the quilts are over 20 years old now, I have noticed that there are a few places on them that are coming loose. She used a real heavy satin stitch and its like it perforated the applique piece. But these had a lot of wear and tear and many many washings!