I have started using a light weight iron on fusible Pelion set right side of appliqué to rough side of Pelion. I draw my shape on the Pelion, then stitch around complete shape. Slit the Pelion near the center and turn right side out. You will have the iron on side facing the back side of your fabric. Flatten and smooth the edges, then press in place. Stitch down around the edges. Flip to the back side and carefully trim away the backing fabric leaving at least 1/4” to 1/3 inch around the edges and press again. Now you can add any other pieces without adding bulk or stiffness.

Love all the tips here.
Being fairly new to applique, I've only used Steam-a-Seam products. I think I will venture out into other products and see which ones work for me on various projects. I would also like to eventually buy a fusible by the yard using my 50% off coupon, but I just have no clue what to buy in that arena. Way over my head.

Thanks for all the great tips here! Can't wait to start my project...unfortunately, I have quite a few PhD's* to complete. (I am trying to be disciplined here...don't know if it will work, though! LOL)

*PhD's...Projects Half Done