Originally Posted by TanyaL
I would use the plaid so that the appliqued vehicles were more prominent in the quilt. Might use the last fabric with the vehicles as the backing fabric. As I understand your post, you usually applique by hand. When you applique by machine you do not have to tie off the threads, only back stitch or stitch in place. Much easier and the threads are more secure than in tying off, also goes so much faster. Your blocks are lovely. If you sandwich the quilt first, then the applique stitch can be your quilting stitch, just select the batting so that it doesn't need close quilting, or just fleece or minky as a backing.
I usually use warm and natural, or warm and white batting, so that will work ok...and, I had thought of sandwiching 1st, but then whichever colors of thread I use will show on the back, and won't that look bad?? If I could use it for my quilting, it would save some time, but I don't think it will work, because of the differing thread colors??...You're right, I normally do it by hand, but am going to machine it this time...thanks again to all of you!