Going Green--use left-over dryer sheets in place of your iron-on interfacing, and then your glue stick or a glue baste-it product.
Random thoughts--
1. Your applique results will always be only as good as your pattern is--so trace/cut v-e-r-y carefully!
2. Use an emory board on the edge of your template if it has a raggedy edge.
3. Use a double layer of freezer paper for templates, with the ink in the center of the sandwich so it doesn't get on your fabric.
4. Instead of a gluestick, try liquid SPRAY starch with a stencil brush, then press dry the edges. This will cause the edges to conform exactly to your template.