Applique Vinyl Method - can I use Sheet Protectors?
 

I'm appliqueing a wall hanging with a ziollion small pieces and read about the Applique Vinyl Method. I like the idea but don't want to spend $10 on a sheet of vinyl for one time.

Is there any reason I can tape together vinyl sheet protectors and use them? (like you put in noteboooks). I have some 12x12 sheets for scrapbooking.

Thanks,
Robin

I don't know why it wouldn't work -- you will draw your master pattern on it -- it just won't be as flexible as the vinyl.

You can always try. I think you can get clear vinyl in the fabric section at Walmart (on a roll, by the yard) for much less than $10, however, and I think a single piece will work better.

You can also use a lightweight non-fusible interfacing as an overlay. Just make sure that you can see through it. Trace your pattern onto it, then use a long running stitch (or a machine basting stitch) to sew it on the top edge of your background fabric. You then roll it up and pin it when you are sewing your pieces down. A lot less expensive than clear vinyl, and you can either use a Frixion pen to trace, then press to remove the markings so you can use it again for the next block, or a fine point Sharpie and keep the overlay with your pattern, in case you ever decide to use it again. Karen Kay Buckley sells a product that she used when she taught the machine applique class I took at the Houston Quilt Festival last year. Just check out her store on her website store.