Danny

I only cut away if the background is showing through the applique, in your case there is no need. Happy quilting!

Krisb

I don’t unless it is showing through.

madamekelly

I did not remove mine, but just want to share a nifty trick that I tried, and it worked really well. When you get your Dresden plate finished, and ironed nice and flat and ready to appliqué in place, take some small pieces of “Stitch Witchery” and iron the little pieces on the back of the tips of the Dresden plate. Now, when you get it all lined up on the background square, iron it in place with the “Stitch Witchery” dots. Holds it secure for hand or machine appliqué in place. I have also used “Elmer’s School Glue” to do the same. Good luck.

citruscountyquilter

I leave the fabric on and haven't noticed it is any heavier than any other quilt.

carolynjo

I learned applique from Pat Campbell (and she was a fantastic teacher!). I never cut away the back.