Another applique question - tiny pieces
Well, I've worked through my applique faux pas problem of interface/webbing/fusing/etc problem and now have another question. There are a couple of very small pieces I need to applique. The smallest is 1/8" x 3/8". How does one sew a piece this small onto the background fabric? I'm using the machine to applique.
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If a piece is 1/8 thick, I will get matching thread and set my machine on zig zag and sew Over it rather then around it.
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You didn't mention what stitch you are using, but because of your concern, I am guessing it is a zigzag, satin or blanket stitch. If you feel you cannot get it narrowed down to work with the tiny pieces you have, then you might want to do those little ones with a regular straight stitch.
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Originally Posted by Tartan
(Post 7959942)
If a piece is 1/8 thick, I will get matching thread and set my machine on zig zag and sew Over it rather then around it.
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I'm now wondering if I can skip the machine applique altogether on the tiny pieces. If I just iron them on how sturdy will they be? Do they tend to not last forever and fall off? Can they take a washing or would that be a no-no?
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I would iron it on as you say but would also use a zig zag across the width of it.
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Originally Posted by MeadowMist
(Post 7960180)
I'm now wondering if I can skip the machine applique altogether on the tiny pieces. If I just iron them on how sturdy will they be? Do they tend to not last forever and fall off? Can they take a washing or would that be a no-no?
because there is very little that they are stuck down with. So yes, a high probability that they may become unattached with usage and especially so, with laundering. |
The problem I've found with iron on stuff, and I've used everything from Bondex to iron on hemming tape, is that it eventually comes undone from washing. My theory is that its due to either the heat of the dryer, or fabric softener attacking the bonding later. So, one way or the other, I would definitely sew that little sucker down.
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i did a tree skirt with small ovals as the eyes and mouth on a snowman. after cutting and trying to applique, i decided to use acrylic paint. it worked fine, and you can't tell unless you're really close. maybe you can try that.
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I'm thinking if I zig zag or even sew a straight line over the tiny applique it will totally cover it and all that will be seen is a zig zag line, but I do understand about it getting lost in the wash. I might try the acrylic paint trick! That sounds like it could work.
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How about couching or a decorative stitch?
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If it is a piece that small I would forget applique and just use a satin stitch to replicate the piece (ie: a stem perhaps?)
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I've attached that small a piece to applique -- I've also used invisible thread -- but my fear is safety, particularly if it's a baby quilt. Anything that I attach to a baby quilt MUST be fully attached -- sewn down. A baby could choke on something that comes loose and I won't risk that with something I'm making! Every piece is sewn securely and I tie knots on the back side of each appliqued block for every stitch I use to applique. I won't risk not sewing the pieces down!
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I think these tiny pieces need to be fastened down securely or they will come loose and/off. I use a few hand stitches to hold them down because the sewing machine can chew up those tiny pieces. No one will ever know!.
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