Are you familiar with the "Ladder Stitch"? It is used for hand applique when you want your stitches to disappear altogether. Baste a piece of fabric where it is needed, then using very small stitches, with thread a matching color, take a stitch in-and-out of the applique fabric, then a stitch in-and-out of the quilt fabric, all the way around. The stitches become invisible. When you are finished, lay it aside awhile, until your emotions change from negative to proud of your accomplishment. Remember, others won't notice. Just keep it your little secret, and don't broadcast your mistakes to others (except to us on QB).