I took a needle turn applique class over this past winter and was totally frustrated in the class - things in general did not go right. I didn't have the right thread or the right needle - it was tough.
However, I really didn't want to give up b/c I loved the look and really want to do a tile quilt or several - esp in honor of my father who was a tile man. So, I bought the right tools and a selection of YLI silks, a bobbin holder of Super Bobs, and their Frosting's collections of cotton bobs to try and it's going much better. I can't decided which threads I like best yet, so I'm still trying them all out. I do think I like the black clover needle best though. I bought a selection of needles to try those out as well.
I love to sit in front of the TV and be able to do it. I now have way too many books I want on applique and also want to branch out into doing some art type quilts. I have not had a chance to try out other applique techniques yet, but would like to.