What stitch length and width settings do you use?

What machine do you have? I have a Bernina. I always use the double blanket stitch with very fine thread. I set my machine width to 2.0 and the length to 1.5. It really depends on how much you want the thread to show. If I am using a very decorative thread I make it larger but if I want the applique to be the focal point I use it smaller.

I am using a Toyota machine that was given to me back in the spring. Nothing fancy, just a few basic stitches. Was going to use the ziz zag stitch but unsure of the stitch length and width. First time I have tried the machine applique.

Can you try out some combinations on scrap fabric?
Then you can note the length/width of each combination and use the one that gives you the look you want

If you want the stitches to come out really nice, use some stabilizer behind the piece. I use tear away. It keeps the stitches from puckering.

Thanks for all the good suggestions. I kept playing & playing till I finally found a combination that I liked. This IS a learning experience for me! Will see how this goes - IF it turns out, it's supposed to be a train quilt for the DGS. I'll post pics if it doesn't come out too bad. lol

Sometimes it is helpful to stitch out many widths and lengths on a scrap fabric. Write down the settings next to each one, then you have a reference for future projects :wink:

great idea.

It depends on the size and complexity of the piece and the look I want to achieve.

PQ,
I recently took an applique refresher. Here's how she explanined it to me so I would remember. Keeping in mind this is a narrow applique stitch.
Here's what she said, "Knock it down and kick it up two".
In English that means; take both your length and width down as far as they will go, then move each of them up 2 times. So if you have a button, press it 2x's.
Make sence?????