I'm doing Dear Jane, too!
I watched Sharon Shamber video on using "light weight foundation" (Pelon fusible on oneside) to applique and would never have tried without it! It stays on the piece and is easy to sew through.
I'm so glad you found a way to help you! Do you know who your vendor is and if she has anything on-line?
Here's the one I use.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YEeir...3&feature=plcp