I have done quite a bit of applique -- all as baby quilts -- primarily Sunbonnet Sue, some done using purchased applique pieces. I make the machine-stitched raw edge applique pieces. I am still the "Official Rank Amateur" when it comes to making quilts, etc., so I'm not comfortable giving advice. The process is NOT terribly difficult, but it is time consuming. I am working on a quilt now that is applique, and I think it's really going to be a pretty quilt. I'm sure you will find lots of help on this site. Please be sure to post pictures of your projects!