I find fusible web a bit stiff for hand applique, but give it a try. You might like just putting the web stuff around the outside edges of the shape, leaving a "window" in the middle. That might make the end result a little softer.
There are many ways to do hand applique, not just the traditional needleturn. One year I taught a class in which we made the same shape (a heart) using a variety of methods. You couldn't tell the difference in the finished project. I like a book called "Applique 12 Ways." I think used copies are available via online retailers or used book dealers.