I am making an quilt top that will have quite a lot of applique on it. The large center motif is created by hundreds of tiny, tiny strips of material laid on top of each other to create color shading, placed under a fine netting dyed to color coordinate and then FMQ onto a backing fabric. Due to the large quantity of the tiny strips, this comes out looking as if it is puff quilted. This entire piece is to be appliqued onto the front of quilt top when it is pieced together.
The rest of the appliques are regular construction. My question is, what different ways is there to apply the appliqued pieces so that they will stand up to animals , grandchildren, and frequent washings other than a small satin stitch? I want the applique method to be as non-visual as possible. I know hand methods will not stand up to the wear and tear this quilt will receive. I hope someone has a unique solution. I think a blanket stitch is not formal looking enough and I don't know of any other stitch.