Because of the issues i've had with my thumbs, i have not been able to do needle turn for several years. I spend my pre-applique time making card stock templates which i use to prep all my pieces in advance. Or i use the "stitch interfacing to the fabric and flip it" to get my shapes. It does take time to prep all my pieces in advance - but then the stitching zips along very quickly - so i figure it comes out about equal.
As Joe'smom said...there are lots of ways to get where you want to go with hand applique....and yes it IS addictive.