New to accuquilt -- input on applique technique
 

I'm playing with my new-to-me accuquilt orange peel die cut and need some input. It looks like it's designed to be used primarily for fusible or raw edge applique-- not something I do much except for quick and throw-away projects. I'd like to make something a little more substantial using scraps from my stash, and I find myself unsure how to do this.

If I do fusible, I think I'd window-pane it to reduce the stiffness, but I'm pondering how to do that -- add after die cutting the fabric? Try to add the flimsy fusible outline to the already cut fabric and then press? Gah!

Then, if I use a blanket stitch to attach -- do I need a stabilizer or will the 2 layers of fabric (orange peel and background block) be substantial enough?

Thanks in advance.

here's a technique I've used. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5tyAig7XupI
using the GO die makes the quilt go much faster.

For windowpane-ing the fusible is going to be a bit fussy. I think I would just go with a featherweight fusible and press before you cut. You could also use a featherweight interfacing (fusible on only one side). Cut your orange peels, then sew them to the interfacing using an 1/8" seam. Right side of fabric to fusible (bumpy) side of interfacing. cut the interfacing to match the edge of the orange peel, and cut a slit. Turn. Now you have a prepared turned edge applique. If you want to window the interfacing a bit you can. Press in place. With any technique you use, you shouldn't need more stabilizer with a blanket stitch, but might need to ease up on the tension a bit. You can then window the background fabric if you'd like. You would need stabilizer if you satin stitched the applique in place.

I wouldn't window-pane for this. I'd use Misty Fuse on the back of the fabric before cutting. Misty Fuse is a super lightweight double-sided fusible. Iron the pieces on the background as usual for fusible applique, then use your blanket stitch (or straight stitch near the edge, or zigzag, or decorative stitch) to secure the edges.

Regarding stabilization of the background fabric, what I do is *heavily* starch the background fabric before cutting. For this I use a 1:1 solution of Sta-Flo liquid laundry starch and water. My method is to "paint" the starch onto yardage until it is saturated, wait a few minutes to allow the starch to penetrate the fibers, toss in the dryer, then iron with steam.

However, if you are using a fusible, it may not be necessary to stabilize the background fabric with starch. I would try a block or two without the starch to see if you can get away without that step.

For machine applique using freezer paper and turned under edges, I use the Accuquilt to cut the freezer paper shapes. It really cuts down on the time involved for this step. Only some of their shapes are useful for this purpose, but the orange peel would be one of them if you prefer turned-under edges.

Agree with Prisim about the Misty Fuse, it's amazing and very lightweight and easy to work with. I would go this route as well, I also just purchased the same die and it will be my next project. Can't wait to see your project!!!

http://youtu.be/0xNZcN01FR0

That is the reason that I never have considered getting one of these cutting machines is that you are stuck with their dimensions. I am working on a flip flop quilt for charity and here is how I use Heat n Bond light.

I've been playing with my new toy and have come up with 29 different ways to applique using the orange peel die. I'd love to come up with a nice even 36 methods, a different approach for each block in the table runner I'm making as an experimental sampler. Maybe some additional ideas will come to me as I work through the 29 I've got so far ; )

I just thought of 2 more methods in the time it took me to walk upstairs, so up to 32 methods of applique I can use, just need 4 more to satisfy this self-imposed goal. . .

And I'm now at 37 techniques. Though some feel a bit like cheating.

I've used Heat N Bond Lite for years but recently bought a bolt of Heat N Bond Featherweight and wow . . .I'm in love! It's the softest fusible ever and the appliqués feel so much softer.

Enjoy your new GO and if you're active on Facebook, AccuQuilt and Beyond is a great group of talented and helpful quilters who can help get you over any humps you might encounter.