Just so you know...my only handwork is the yellow stem stitch. I do machine applique. I use "applique fiber" which is glued around the edges with Elmer's washable school glue (same as Roxanne’s Glue Baste-It) onto the back of the fabric. Glue is also used in the seam allowance and turned under. Then it is pressed with a hot iron which dries the glue. It is tacked down with dots of glue in the seam allowance into position. I use clear monofilament thread to machine blanket stitch. After all pieces are stitched, the block is soaked in water for 20 minutes and rinsed. The fiber which was stiff is now soft. It is left in. You would not know it is there. I love it. I haven't learned to do needle-turn, so this is the only way I can get good results.
The applique fiber I use is sold here :
http://ww2.brickmart.com/index.php?m...98d2bc646d210f
Sharon Schamber calls her product applique stabilizer:
http://www.sharonschamber.com/shoppi...ccessories.htm
Both cost $3 a yard.