Originally Posted by quiltingshorttimer

I always also do stitch-in-ditch around the applique/embroidery blocks (this also stitches down any bat you might be adding for that trapunto effect if not double batting). As far as tying in the applique to the alternating blocks, I travel in the ditch (part of the reason for SID around applique plus it makes them more defined) and then will do what ever design in the alternating blocks I've picked. Since I want to make the quilt density about equal across the quilt, if I were doing heavy fill around the applique, I would do lots of quilting on the alternate blocks. If only SID the block and then echoing 2-3 times around the applique or embroidery, I would do a more open quilting--i.e. continuous curves, orange peels, etc. Those are gentle enough curves you can also do with a walking foot (or without) on a DSM. since you are wanting that handwork to stand out (you probably spent more time on it!) you don't want your alternate blocks to steal the show. Post when you finish the quilting, please.