Today I decided to try my luck at the applique method. I want to do these snowmen and make quilt blocks. I can do the iron on part and get them ready it is the sewing. I did my first one today and found that I can zig zag around the pieces except if they have any different shapes, (around circles, valentines and things like that). Can any one give me any ideas or suggestions because I looked up and could not find much information. I can do appliqued blocks on my embroidery machine but not this kind. Will try to add a photo later thank you

the pictures didn't show up.

shorten your zigzag to a tiny one- and slow down- or you can use a blanket stitch.
there are lots of tutorials on machine applique- just do a search for fusable machine applique- you will find tons of hints, tips and videos.

no pics?

it helps me for the needle to stop in the down position & go very slow. I either use a zig zag stitch or a blanket stitch on my machine.

When you need to turn a curve stop with needle down on the outside of the curve. Doesn't matter if the needle is on the background or the applique, just so long as it is on the outside of the stitching-curve. That way the next stitch will be within the stitching. If you were to stop on the inside and than continue there is a good chance you'd create a gap.