BettyGee

I think you did a beautiful job! The first time I did it was a disaster because I didn't use a stabilizer, what a mess. Since then if I use a heavy stabilizer I've been much happier with the result. Those turns are still tricky, but as one member said if we practice we will get better.

MadP

Using a stablizer on the back makes a lot of good advise to me.

MarthaT

When I satin stitch applique, I like to go around it first with a looser zigzag and then go over it again with a tighter one. I seem to get a better coverage that way without having to make such a tight zigzag that easily puckers. Has anyone else found this method helpful or am I weird?

Tartan

Having a machine with needle up/down button is really helpful. Stop with the needle down on the outside edge of an appliqué for outside curves. Stop with the needle down on the inside of an appliqué on inside curves. This will give you good appliqué edge coverage. Use a stabilizer underneath to avoid tunneling of the satin stitch. An appliqué foot is helpful too because it has a space for the satin stitch to run underneath and it is open in the front so can see better. I think Craftybear listed a site this week that was on appliqué?

DonnaQuilts

I agree about the stabilizer. There is a new, water soluble one also. Haven't tried it, but want to. I have a New home, (Janome), Memory Craft and I can use the stitch width lever and make the points on the flowers. It does take some practice, but the lever moves smoothly and it is possible. The machine is old, like me, but we have turned out some good stuff over the years. Just keep practicing, it will come in handy on down the road. Good luck.

SmickChick

You did a very good job. I bet those minor puckers would come out with some echo quilting of the background or a stipple. Ditto what has been said about stabilizer. The satin stitch is very formal, if you want a quick way of salvaging this, and, not just "salvaging this," but to give it more excitement, keep what you have done, and free-motion zig zag - not tight, actual zigs and zags, just inside of the satin stitch. This could be done with the same thread, or one just a shade different, or even another color. When you do this, you don't have to follow the first satin stitches exactly, just go for it. If you do this, it is very forgiving, whereas satin stitch is not.
Good job!

Jenniky

Thank you all again for your continued help with the Satin Stitch I have learned so much from all of you. SmickChick do you have any pictures of Applique you have done with the free motion zigzag. Pictures always help me so much. Thanks again everyone.

RAChhap

Excelent advice on using stabilizer. I would add-practice and trying to keep your speed constant will give a nice smooth stitch. Also, it takes extra time but when I learned the teacher had us go around the design with a small regular zig-zag then do the satin stitch. You don't have to do this forever but it seemed to help in the beginning. PS your first attempt looks great!

jeanneb52

They are right...stabilize the heck out of it!

Marysewfun

I use coffee filters, too, for stabilizer - they work great and are cheap!! I have also used them for tracing items.

Marysewfun