Machine applique backspace question
 

I have a Baby Lock Grace sewing machine and am new to applique. I like the machine, but when I use the applique stitch (#13) it back stitches during the stitch. Other machines do not make this back stitch. Maybe I need to get used to it, but it is almost distracting and hard on the eyes keeping on the edge of the fabric. Anyone else have this issue? My applique project turned out beautiful.

Thanks.
Donna

Ai also have a BL...not my fav, but anyway...yes there is a blanket stitch that does that, but also one that is the traditional blanket stitch..one without that backstitch....I don't like that backstitch one....those wh do like it..what do you use it on?

I use a blind hem stitch instead. No back stitch.

Does your number 13 look like this one on the screen? For appliques, I generally use a stitch similar to #6 and decrease the width. It gives a secure stitch to the applique piece. There may be a plain blanket stitch on your machine too. It's shown here as #14.

Geri B, The stitch shown here as # Q-16 I use to secure binding on quilts. I call it the double flag since it stitches two across then goes down to the next "flag" stitch. The length and width can also be adjusted depending on where I want the lines of stitches to be. Hope that helps.

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Does your machine have the ability to mirror image a stitch? I think you want to use a different stitch mirror-imaged. It would help if you could post a link to your exact model so we could see your stitch options, as they can be numbered differently on different machines.

When you say a back stitch, you mean it takes a stitch in reverse?

Edit: If you haven't already, I recommend taking a scrap piece of muslin and sewing out each of the stitches. If you find the stitch that you want but it is facing the wrong way, check your manual to see if there is a way to mirror image it.

Prism has a great idea with a sample book of stitches. When you find the perfect stitch, write down the setting with your sample. Some machines let you set the stitch in the machine memory pocket.

I had a class on serger techniques and made a sample book. I use it all the time.

I'm having difficulty loading a picture of my stitches from my machine.
I'm trying to find a good stitch to applique. Rhonda, I like your #6 on your machine and will work.
Prism.. yes, I mean reverse.. Thanks all, I'll keep working on it.

Is this your model?

https://www.sewandvacny.com/baby-loc...ng-machine.htm

If so, stitch # 4 might work. It looks similar to my machine #6. I decrease the width down and the stitch length too. Try a sample first before stitching on the applique piece.

Good luck!

I tried #4 and it looks great. Yes, that is my Baby Lock Grace. I like the machine and am leaning things all the time.
Thanks again.

I have a BL Symphony and use #7 (zigzag) on my applique. I do not care for my stitches to show so I set it for .05 width and .09 length and use the same color thread as my applique. I use the "N" presser foot because it lines up perfectly with the center needle setting on the Q07 setting. Here is a sample of my applique close-up. Just another option, if interested. (this is turned edge so stitch may not be the best for raw edge so you'd need to consider this.)