The fusible stuff rec by my LQS must be great for machine stitching,
but I put pieces on by hand. It is so stiff, it is like stitching thru
cardboard. Did I read the instructions carefully? No. Did I make a sample? No. Have I tried different needles? Sure, not a big help.
Have I learned anything ? You bet. Will I finish the blocks? Yes, but slowly!!

Beautiful blocks. Sorry to hear you're having issues with them.

I wonder if they didn't give you the "light" fusible?
I am sorry you are having trouble with this technique :(

Beautiful colors. Love the pattern.

Have you tried Appli-bond Needles? I had all sorts of problems with hand fusible applique until I discovered these wonderful little treasures.

Maybe you could switch to machine applique for this quilt ???

it is hard to stitch through fusables using the machine...about impossible for hand stitching, sorry that your lqs did not explain that the fusable was meant for machine applique. a good thimble, and a pair of needle-nose pliars may be necessary.
beautiful blocks.

Try the John James Gold n Glide needles. In fact, I'm using them to hand quilt a quilt made out of batiks and really glides very easily through it. Just a thought.

Sorry you are having problems- but love what you are doing :mrgreen: Can't wait to see more :thumbup:

Could someone do a tutorial on needles? TY!!

What a shame! My LQS recommended some fusible that is so flexible you can't tell it's there. She had two pieces of fabric fused together to demonstrate, and I swear you would think it was just double-faced fabric it was so soft. Good luck, and try some of the suggested needles.

I have had great luck with a soft fusible but it comes in sheets & I was trying to save $$ by buying stuff by the yard!
Thanks for the tips about needles & pliers.

Hmm, the fusible I mentioned does come by the yard. I just looked at mine. Unfortunately it doesn't have any manufacturing info on the roll I have. I'll have to ask my LQS what it is.

BTW, your iris' are gorgeous!!!

What is the brand of fusible you purchased? If it's Wonder Under - it's OK for machine sewing but impossible to hand stitch through. Most of the big name appliquers use Steam-A-Seam 2 Light - it's really nice. I found a wonderful fusible last year - think it's called Shades. Stacy Michell (daughter of Marti the template lady!) makes this and it is wonderful - cannot feel it at all. Heat and Bond Light is OK - haven't tried to hand stitch through it though.

Sandy in Mooresville, NC

beautiful blocks!

i didnt know they had special needles for that

Thanks all for your input. I am going to continue the hand embroidery because it looks so good and my machine is a pretty simple one. I will investigate different needles, find my pliers, and just do a little at a time. Best, Dotty