It’s so funny because your method of trying to figure out the best way to do it is exactly what I went through!! :) I really like the back basting method too, I did use steam a seam light for one project and though it was much easier and quicker initially I still have to do something about the raw edges which will probably take just as much time as needleturn. I found the back basting method nice and easy to do. I am currently working on a project, but I am not using back basting because the pattern has a lot of embroidery on it where you have to trace the lines on the front of the fabric before you needleturn and it would be impossible to line up with back basting, but for project with less embroidery I would probably go with back basting.

Cheers!
Rachel

I saw a tutorial where you mark all the details on the back of the background fabric and just use that as your guide when doing the front embroidery stuff. It was http://www.allaboutapplique.net and very helpful for me. I had never even done needleturn and had only done one fusable applique before. The pattern book "Horsing Around" is by Darcy Ashton. Very cute. And the sashing I am going to do is going to be the crazy nine patch latice one of our group made. Only mine will be in pinks and black and pink. I just have so many things to get done first. Not enough time in the day!