I do both hand and machine applique.
I am taking a class and found that you can use any stitch to machine applique. I have a Pfaff 4.0 so I have lots of different stitiches.
I don't know what you have but you can use a zig zag, button hole, satin stitch, blind hem etc.
I use heat and bond but the last quilt I did was quite stiff.
I am not sure if that is because it was old or what. I just bought new yesterday so I will let you know.
Hope this helps