Gals/Guys, Let's make skinny stems. I find this method easy and one taught by Karen Kay Buckley. Raid the husband's tool area and find some of the "zip strips" (don't know the real name); taking one or two of each size. They are white or clear and are used to bundle things together. They come in a variety of widths. To use, the pointed end is slipped through a slot on the opposite end and then cinched up. You will need to cut off the bulky end. -- Have your iron ready and spray starch or sizing
Measure the width of the strip x2 and then add 1". Example: 1/4" strip = 1/4 + 1/4 + 1 = 1-1/2". Using this measurement, cut your bias strip 1-1/2". (This extra inch will assure the feed dogs grab the fabric.) If you need a yard or so, stitch your strips together and press seams open or make several smaller ones. Put your zipper foot onto the sewing machine, reduce your stitch length (12 or stitches/inch). With the pointed end of the zip strip toward yourself, stitch closely (using needle position if necessary) along the strip, thus enclosing the zip strip. For longer lengths, just push the strip along and continue stitching to the end of your bias strip. DO NOT REMOVE THE ZIP STRIP.
Trim very closely to your stitches. With the zip strip inside, wiggle the seam to the center back of the strip. Once in place, spray and then press the seam flat (beauty is not necessary), making sure it cannot be seen from the right side. Do one section at a time, pushing the strip along the bias until your stem is completed. -- When the strip is pressed, turn over and LIGHTLY press from the top side. It has to be dry before using. Just do not crush it.
The stem is now ready for stitching to the background of your project. Stitch an outside curve first, if necessary. You may leave the ends open and then insert a yarn to give the stem 3-dimensional look.
Remember also, ALL APPLIQUE IS PRESSED FACE DOWN ONTO A TOWEL - NEVER FROM THE TOP SIDE. Obviously, remove your markings before pressing.
Let me hear from you once you have tried this method. Good luck!