Applique turn-unders
 

I used to baste my 1/4 inch turn-under on my applique pieces. This sometimes left edges that were not smooth.
I found a simpler method-- run a basting stitch 1/4 inch in from the edge and after tacking the piece in position, using your needle, turn it under as you go using the thread as your guide. Remove the basting thread when completed..

that sounds like a good idea. i'll have to give that a try. thanks for sharing

I use the freezer paper method but I only turn under 1/8 inch I found I got smoother edges.

You should try using a much smaller turn-under. The smaller, the smoother. Don't forget to clip any curves for a smoother look. Good luck, I just love applique by hand. I find it so relaxing.

I'm trying this method that you mentioned. I basted 1/8 of an inch away from the cut edge. I am having such difficulty turning the edge under with the needle. Still haven't picked up the trick to it. I'm appliqueing over a finished quilt. just so sorry that I chose to do my appliques in this manner. But it's too late to turn back now. I am no longer a perfectionist but it is hard for me to "be happy" with my work.

I tried needle-turn once and got so frustrated that I looked for a new method..... fabric glue. That works really well for me but then I have to wash the quilt to get the glue out. I'd like to try the needle turn again.... are there any videos on U-tube or other site that would be good for me to watch. I'm such a visual learner that reading about it doesn't work for me. Thanks,

nanna

I use starch too, I find the fabric turns under so much easier with a little body

I use starch and an iron to press my seams under. Then I glue baste my pieces on to the background. It takes a bit of time but I love the results. All of my curves and points are perfect. All I have to do is get comfy and sit on the couch and sew. I don't have to worry about turning anything under. Its perfect with the kids and I have to set my work down at any give point. My favorite blog describing this technique is http://erinrussek.typepad.com/. Its great and her designs are super cute.

I will try out these ideas if and when I get to making a Dresden Plate Quilt. Thanks.

That's why I only do raw edge applique. :D

Yep, I agree! After much trial and error, that is also the method I use. (I use template plastic shapes to iron the "seam allowances" under then glue baste and sew it on already turned!

I use freezer paper and starch works great.

I just use a chalk pencil on the right side of my applique pieces, and turn under on the line. I cut 1/4" seams and then trim them and clip curves as I go.

I got a book by Alex Anderson on the "needle-turn" method of applique, and this is exactly what she does.

For perfect circles, I use the dryer sheet method but haven't had much luck when using that method when appliqueing alphabet letters. I do run a line of stitching along the edge and use the needle turn method to turn the edges up to that line of sewing and am always impressed by people who can make an entire applique quilt.

Finger-press, finger -press finger-press!!!!!!!!!!! i learned the hard way to finger press all pieces before I try to applique. No one told me to do this and it makes life so much easier when you applique and don't forget to make sure all your pieces are cut on the bias.....no trouble with curves then. The fabric has a memories and turns under so much easier. I also, use a toothpick to turn under and not the needle. I keep the toothpick in my mouth and it is slightly damp and turn under is so much easier but remember..........finger press!!!

I do the needle turn method, and with the assistance of the Fons and Porter glue stick, and finger pressing, my points and curves are so much better. It just takes a little practise to master this method, and patience goes a long way in the beginning. I have also tried back basting, which I also like, and things turn very easily and smooth.

Back Basting & Washable Markers
 

I use combination of back basting with washable markers, that I have drawn on the back of the fabric block. ck When I needle turn (or more appropriately - toothpick turn) I can see the blue washable marker from the top and know that I'm right on track. After the block is done, I need to rinse WITHOUT detergent it to ensure the blue washable marker comes out. Sometimes I like to take one of those pigma permanent fine markers and mark on top of the fabric and turn it under, hiding the mark - but I have to be on top of my game to do that! Those round toothpicks at Cracker Barrel are my favorite!

You and me, babe!

I use a 3/16" turn under to do needle turn applique. I love it.

I sew my appliques to a used dryer sheet or a piece of thin interfacing, cut a slit in the back of the back, turn it, press it and it's ready to stitch down. I can cut it really close to the seam line and it lays beautifully on the background fabric. This works especially well if you are layering pieces as it is so think and doesn't add any extra bulk.

This is a really cool idea. You should make a tutorial for this.
peace

Good information ... I am new to appliqué ..

I have to admit that these are all great ideas. I have only tried 1 block of applique using the sewing thin interfacing, etc. Doesn't work well if the piece has a fine/thin area. Need to try needle turning. Also want to try reverse appliquing, which I suppose would be similar to raw edge.

When I do needle turn, I use a bent beading long handle tweezer the fold the edges under, hold the turned under piece in place with my non quilting hand and stitch away. It works awesome for very fine stemwork and leaf points as well. I also use the freezer paper method sometimes too. I just do not care for all the prep with the starch, etc. You can also have used the freezer paper templates with shiny side up on back of fabric, cut fabric slightly larger and press edges to freezer paper. It works best for me if I put a pin in the center of the piece to hold it in place while I press the edges down.

In looking for a way to have neater looking applique, I came across this tutorial. Have tried it and it turned out very good. Some of you have already mentioned this method of back basting but thought the pictures may add to any directions already given.

http://www.allaboutapplique.net/cate...turn-applique/

I made a Dresden Plate square on Craftsy Free BOM and didn't use applique at all.. You might want to take a look at that class.