I like to use buttonhole stitch for machine applique;At first glance, it almost looks hand sewn. Not all machines have a buttonhole stitch, though. If I am going to fuse my pieces down, I use the Ultra Bond Light or Steam a Seam Light fusible webs (both can be purchased at JoAnn's). Be careful not to purchase the ultra/heavy weight products for bonding, as they are difficult to sew through and will result in stiff appliques. I find it is easiest to use Titanium coated needles, since they are less likely to gum up with the fusible web. If you choose to sew your appliques and then to turn them inside out, use Quilt Smart for your interfacing. It is very thin & delicate like the dryer sheets suggested, but can be purchased off the bolt and therefore you are not limited to the size of a dryer sheet. Hope this helps. Nita