I don't know how others do it, but I found that by using small pieces of paper backed fusible web on the back of each point, then ironing it to the background, I could then hand stitch them down like an appliqué. I just like that look better. I do use quilters pins to hold the Dresden in place while I iron so nothing moves! This trick was especially helpful when I made a 47" center medallion Dresden quilt. It did take most of a day to sew it down, but I was very happy with the results. You could do the same trick when you machine sew them down.
I do trim the fabric from behind the Dresden, leaving a generous 1/4" or so for security.
Last edited by madamekelly; 11-26-2013 at 02:04 PM.