If you are doing fusible applique, my favorite trick ever is to draw the shape on the fusible paper then cut the center out so you are using only a 1/4 to 1/2 wide strip of fusible to put on the fabric. This makes is so flexible and decreases the weight. If you hand quilt, this is very important. I always use a satin stitch or decorative stitch to secure the piece.
Another method is to sew interfacing with the fusible side to the right side of the fabric, cut a small slit in the interfacing and turn the whole piece inside out. Then your fabric is right side out and the fusible is ready to place against your foundation fabric. You can use any stitch to secure it and my favorite for this is the blind hem stitch. You only have to catch the very edge since there are no raw edges due to having used the interfacing. Clear as mud?
Oh and by the way, Welcome to the Board from Tennessee!