I'm curious about an applique method I've seen Eleanor Burns do, and you may not be able to follow what I'm saying unless you've seen it too.

Sometimes she uses the method I'm familiar with where she irons on fusible transfer which is then removed to iron the applique to the quilt. But other times she places the adhesive side against the right side of the fabric and stitches the two together, following the outline of the finished applique, and leaving a small opening. She then turns the piece inside out and irons the double-layer applique to the quilt.

My question is: why does she do it this way? Is there an advantage I'm not seeing? I'd think it would be difficult to be sure the edge of the fusible transfer is tucked beneath the applique so it doesn't show. I've seen her do this several times but without an explanation. I'd appreciate your insight.

I used to make SunBonnet Sues that way, draw them onto the smooth side of fusible and sew on that line. Clip fusible if necessary and turn "right" side out which puts the fusible on the back then. I liked the slight raised applique look it gave.

I've used Sulky wash-away sheet to sew on the front of appliques. You leave a seam allowance which tucks under as you turn the applique. I used a decorative stitch on my machine to sew it down. Worked like a charm.

when she sews around and turns she is using interfacing, not applique web. interfacing is only fusible on one side, it is cheaper than the two sided made for applique and for large shapes would be much lighter, also it's good for doing needle turn applique

If you use the two sided fusible (Heat&Bond), the edges of the applique will eventually start fraying on the edges even if you use a buttonhole stitch. A tight zig zag will prevent this from occurring.

When you sew the light fusible to an applique and turn it inside out, you have turned the raw edges to avoid the fraying. She started using this technique I think when her Sunbonnet Sue book came out and continues using it.

I did see someone use washaway interfacing doing the same technique of sewing the edges and turning it inside out and pressing. When the applique has been pressed into place and starched, she mist the wash away with water and then you just have the applique without the bulk of the fusible interfacing. Many techniques to choose from. Use the one that works for you.

You also have to remember she sells these applique designs on light weight fusible in her shop. One good reason for doing applique her way, for her that is.

I've used the second method, stitch and turn, when I intend to add a decorative button hole edging
MaryKatherine

I use the second method for my applique -- works great with medium/large appliques and is so easy -- I pierce the interfacing and then turn the thingy -- the ironed applique stays down, more or less, during sewing but can be raised up if necessary -- this method saves a time in cutting/sewing

i've done the second method using the fusible web called stitch witchery... it is very light and works well for me.... especially since i have a stash on hand

I was just at a quilty friends place last Saturday and she was using this (second) method. It looked intriguing and I WILL try it.

She was doing a blanket stitch around her applique edges.

I like it for an alternative to needle turn. The problems I have with needle turn is the actual turning of the edges with the needle. With this method I don't have to worry about that part!!