On some of the applique emb work...you stitch out the outline, cut fabric that just fits inside that outline and apply basting spray to the back of that fabric to hold it in place. Then the machine continues to stitch around the applique piece. Some of the applique is free standing, some is left on the fabric, depending on the design and use.
Another tip I have heard is this, for items that can't be hooped... use a medium weight water soluble just under the fabric...if you apply just a touch of water it will become sticky and you can use that stickiness to hold your item in place. They use this method alone, or along with basting the fabric into the hoop.