Back basting?
I've never heard of that, I've only done machine applique so far.
But after watching the link that Craftybear posted I think I'll try it.
Thanks

I tried to hand applique one time using only a book at my guide. It did not turn out well. Fortunately it was just a small practice piece of a couple of leaves with a lady bug. I really would like to know how. I am thinking my new friend in Fort Smith might be able to help me. She is a member here and that is how I found her.

I'm trying to finish my first machine applique quilt, and it's turning out pretty well. I really enjoy that method. Hopefully I'll get it finished soon and can post a pic.

I also like raw edge applique and have made two small quilts using this method.
Here's a pic of one of them, inspired by a trip to San Juan Island, Washington which has a big population of fox.

I LOVE your fox quilt!!! It is absolutely adorable.

I do all kinds of applique. :)
For hand applique I too prefer the backbasting technique. It makes so much sense and is so easy to do. I've tried other ways to do hand applique and wasn't terribly pleased with any of them.
For machine applique I have used many different techniques, each has its place and time to be used.
Applique is fun.

Pati, in Phx

I love to hand applique but don't have the time to do all the quilts I want. I've got a machine technique that mimics hand applique and have written a tutorial for it here:

http://www.generations-quilt-pattern...-applique.html

The introduction show pictures of two of my applique projects...one done by hand, the other with this technique...to compare and contrast the two. You can "click" on both pictures to see life size views.

Hope you like it.

Julie

Hi I have done both machine and needle turn. I am teaching my self. I find both enjoyable. My first one was machine about 20 y ago. first hand appli 9 months ago. I found it fasinating. I don't know about back basting, seems like a lot of waist of time and energy. but thats my opinion.

Theresse,
I can see where the initial impression of back basting is that it takes more time and energy, but it really doesn't. <G> (Yes I am a firm believer in it, and think that in the long run it saves time and energy. <G> )
Mimi Deitrich (sp???) calls it needle marked applique, BTW. With this method you only trace your pattern once.... on the back of the background fabric. There are no pencil/pen/chalk marks ever made on the right side of the fabric.
The entire design is drawn as it is to be finished (but in mirror image) So there is no fuss about where any piece goes, it is all exactly where you want it.

Everyone has their favorite way of doing things. Which is why there are so many different right ways to do something. But you might give the back basting technique a try on something. You might just be a convert. <VBG>

Have fun,
Pati, in Phx

I like floral applique the best - mostly machine applique using Steam n' Seam.

Julie, there was no way I could tell which was which. WOW!!!