Hi Everyone,

I'm working on this snowflake block for the "Be Merry" BOM that I'm doing. I'm not very well versed in applique to begin with, so thought I'd throw this question out to you who are.

What's the best way to machine applique this down? Which stitch? How small or big? I have used Steam-a-Seam II to fuse it to the background fabric. Now what? I've never sewn down anything quite this intricate before. It is only 1/4" wide and approx 6.5" x 6.5". Thanks in advance for all your help.

I have used a small zig zag stitch with transparent thread with satisfactory results. Might try it on a test piece first to practice. I usually do my applique by hand. Turning under the edges and use a "blind" stitch but that doesn't look like that would work well with this. Good luck!

I'd use a dark thread and blanket stitch or feather stitch. The extra points from the stitches would make it look more delicate. Try some out on scrap before deciding.

Ooh, that sounds like a neat idea! I'll most definitely will practice on a scrap piece. Ask me how I've learned!! :roll: Thanks!

Hi Cathie,

I'm going to try your idea on a scrap piece, too. It's all hard to imagine until I've done it and can then see it. Thank you so very much.

I can't wait to see what it looks like with the stitching. Post a pic please.

Okay. I have two snowflakes to do. These are SO tedious to cut out, especially trying to keep them together with the Steam-a-seam II paper. DH cut out the first one, I'm working on the second one. It's hard on our arthritic hands. :cry:

Thanks for your interest,