I love to needle turn when I am watching tv or sitting in a doctor's office. However most of the time, I machine applique. I use Steam A Seam 2 but in order to cut down on the stiffness, after tracing the shape onto the Steam A Seam 2, I cut the center out of the center of the Steam A Seam 2 so there is only a minimal amount of the bonding agent left. I personally prefer a satin stitch and have never cared for raw edge unless it is for a wall hanging only.
I suggest you try all the methods out on the same piece (maybe applique a heart on a square) and give yourself a valid comparison.
Good luck and hope you find a method you enjoy.