Am I making a big mistake on this baby quilt?
 

I am making an applique baby quilt. As I am hoping it will be used rather than hung, I decided not to use Heat n Bond on the applique fabric pieces. (I was hoping this will make it softer). The applique is done in the hoop using my embroidery function on my DSM. I plan to use batting and either cotton or flannel backing for the quilt. I am still in the middle of making the applique blocks, but having second thoughts. Is there any danger to not backing the applique fabric? I am using a tear away stabilizer under the main fabric. Designs are about 5" x 6", and medium density of stitching. I plan on minimal quilting around the applique portion of the blocks.

I have made 3 of the 15 applique blocks, so if this is a big mistake, I am willing to start over. Thanks for sharing any thoughts, experiences.

Are you able to post pictures?

I think that will help get more useful/usable answers.

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Here are the blocks. 8.5 inches. Will be framed then sashed.

I don’t have any advice but wanted to tell you your blocks are adorable!

Cute blocks. One thing you didn't mention - was the flannel pre-washed before you started using it. Flannel is well known for shrinking.

Can't comment on applique at all because I have never done it.

I may use flannel for the backing. There is no flannel in the applique or top of the quilt. I wash all fabrics before use, so if I do use flannel for the backing, I will definitely wash it first.

I am not an expert by any means, especially with machine applique but it looks to me that the edges of the applique fabric is very well covered by the stitches you are using. This will keep the fabric edges from fraying and coming lose from the background fabric. The applique I've done has been with fusible web and then I do a machine blanket stitch or just a straight stitch near the edge. Those stitches would not prevent fraying on their own and the fusible helps. So I think yours will work just fine and your blocks are cute as can be!

Just wanted to add, I hope you do use flannel for your backing. It will really add to the soft cuddly feeling you are going for. Or Minkee, that is cozy too, and not nearly as hard to work with as some say. I use one or the other on kids quilts or any quilt I want to be snuggly.

From your photos it look like you need a heavier stabilzer, I would use a tear away, but since you are using that perhaps a cut away will help with the wrinkling around the design. Just a thought...

The animals are very adorable.