Originally Posted by LucyInTheSky
Originally Posted by jayelee
I was taught to sew with the right side of the stitch just off the edge of the fabric I don't know if that helps but I use heat and bond light and dont have this problem
Making sure I have this right - the majority of your stitching is on the applique with only a little on the background, correct?
I'm not sure I understand your question about the stitching, but this is how I do it. I use the blanket stitch, sewing with the straight part of the stitch right next to the applique and the left swing of the needle on the applique. I do a lot of applique and I use Heat 'n Bond light. I use a sharp needle, and I put on a new one for each project. I've never had a problem with fraying, even when I do raw-edged applique where I stitch a straight stitch right on the edge. So far, everything has held together. My guess? It's your needle. Put on a fresh new one each time you do a new applique project. That stuff on the back of the applique can't help but gum things up and dull your needle.