I am using steam a seam. I want to make the happy daisy quilt, and I was thinking I could use invisible thread to eliminate the many different thread colors> I want to make the quilt a queen size, using as many different colors as I could.

I am using steam a seam. I want to make the happy daisy quilt, and I was thinking I could use invisible thread to eliminate the many different thread colors> I want to make the quilt a queen size, using as many different colors as I could.

I use invisible thread for applique all the time- I use a small blanket stitch most of the time- once in a while I choose a small zigzag- but never satin stitch- it Is not a good choice for satin stitch- a satin stitch is a very heavy stitch- which I never use for applique- but some people do- with a thread in a coordinating color- since it really stands out & stiffens the applique edge.

It's fine to use invisible thread for this; it's using the satin stitch with invisible thread that you won't like. Make a few sample shapes and try different stitches to see what you like. Some of the most common are (1) narrow zigzag, (2) blanket stitch, (3) hem stitch, (4) straight stitch inside the applique shape, or (5) other decorative stitch such as a feather stitch.

If you Google "machine applique stitches" and then click on "images", you can see photos of different ways quilters finish fusible edges. You can use any of these -- with the exception of satin stitch -- with invisible thread.

I'd go with a smallish zig zag with invisible thread for a bed quilt.

I am with Prism99, post #15. I learned in a couple classes that when it comes to using invisible thread, the better choice is polyester over nylon. It has something to do with the heat from the iron....nylon does not hold up well.

You can turn the edges over. I cut my pieces 1/8 to 1/4 inch bigger than I need them to be and turn the edges down with a glue stick. Then I don't have to worry about fraying.

Or, if I'm using a fusible, I just don't worry about it. Unless it is washed a lot, there is generally very little visible fraying. I use a light zig zag or a blanket stitch.

Or, if you want satin stitch, use a coordinating color- it becomes part of the design element.

thank you for your suggestins. I guess I won't be doing satin stitches. You are all so helpfull

I have used a very small zigzag stitch, not satin stitch and it was fine, just play with your settings, are you doing raw edge or freezer paper, that will make the difference on the fraying