Originally Posted by
CorgiNole
If you work well from books, I highly recommend Harriet Hargrave's Mastering Machine Applique. I'm taking her class this summer at symposium and have read the book twice in anticipation. It gives very clear instructions on multiple ways to prepare the applique as well as machine settings and techniques if you plan to sew buy machine. The preparation sections are still relevant if you are planning to hand sew/needle turn.
Cheers, K
I also highly recommend Harriet's book...she is a master but the book explains it for even beginners and has great illustrations. Hearts and stars are both good shapes to practice on. Depending on your machine, and what thread you use, you can get a lot of different looks with your applique. You can use matching or blending thread colors, or one color on all of your applique, or even invisible thread if you don't want your stitches to show.
Have fun!