are you hand appliqueing or machine appliqueing? I do ALOT of applique- glue sticks work great. I've found some of the fusibles *even the lightweight/sew-in ones are sometimes hard to sew through---a light glue stick is not difficult to sew through. I buy cheapy ones *4 to a pack for $1 at the dollar store* they work great and the glue washes out when the quilt is laundered. don't 'HATE' starch- it has it's purpose and uses- sometimes it is a major mainstay-- but you should never add anything *and always pre-wash with detergent- no fabric softener* when planning to use any fusibles...the fabric needs to be without additives for the fusible to hold. *glue should stick fine to your starched fabrics.