For quilters who like to Applique!!!!
 

I went to a class and our teacher gave us a hint on what to use when you are doing needle turn. She uses the toothpicks that are sold at Cracker Barrel. I paid around $1.50 for a container full!!!!!!

Some teachers have so many helpful hints!!

Hmm, I have been craving their biscuits lately... ;)

If there's not a Cracker Barrel near you, you can sometimes find the same toothpicks at a grocery store.

I have a dear friend who only uses toothpicks. She wets them with her tongue and then turns the fabric, she does the most beautiful applique and is very fast. It amazes me to watch her.

Is it just a wooden toothpick.? I don't use toothpicks so not which one it would be .

How do you use the toothpicks? And why are these toothpicks different from the wooden ones found in grocery stores? Thanks

Yes, that is neat. A coworker that quilts gave a bunch of them. I have try needle turn applique yet.

I bought mine on line. They really work!

How are toothpicks better or different than turning with the needle??? Applique is something I haven't tried yet but am planning on so I don't know anything from experience, just from reading and listening.

I haven't tried the toothpick method yet, but I imagine the roughness of the wood would grab the little threads better and make it easier to sweep it all under.

Well you can put your DNA on it and it stays moist which helps to dampen the fabric a bit and that is what helps turn your fabric. They are stronger and have a better grip than the original ones.
Try it you may like it!!!!!
Also buy your self a pair of those glasses that have a headband and they sell a Craft stores like Michaels. You have a better look at what you are appliquing.

Yes, and although it doesn't sound very hygienic, it helps tons if you moisten them--lick them or dip them in a little water. Someone showed me that trick too and I've been amazed at how much easier it makes turning the edges smoothly.

Hmmm, sounds like a good enough reason to go to Cracker Barrel for dinner! Especially since I just started an applique project!! What perfect timing!

the wood of the toothpick grabs the fabric better than the smooth needle--downside i found was keeping the tooth pick in my mouth between use--i re trained my self by putting it in an eggcup close handy

ive been using toothpicks for over 10 years- that's how i was taught to do needleturn- but i don't drive the 78 miles necessary to get to cracker barrel- my grocery store has a nice selection of toothpicks. the ones i choose are wood, round, long (about 3" i think) very inexpensive and have served me well.

I like mint flavored toothpicks better.

Funny, I have a book for quilting tips that I haven't picked up in a year. Yesterday as I was cleaning my sewing room, I ran across it, opened it randomly and guess what it was all about? You got it, using toothpicks to applique!! and I had never heard of it before. lol

Yes cheap toothpicks do the job!!!!

I've been appliqueing for 5 years and the teacher showed us how to use the toothpick as an option. I like it much better than turning with a needle, however, I do look kind of funny sitting there with a toothpick hanging out from my lip. I also use the round toothpicks that are double-pointed. The flat ones feel too flimsy. One of the restaurants I go to has individually wrapped toothpicks. I always pick up 6 or so on my way out.

Also, I've always bought the plain toothpicks, not the colored. I would be afraid the color would transfer to my fabric (not to mention my tongue).

I'm the odd person out here because I cannot see why you'd even need toothpicks. I've done a couple of needle turn pieces and had zero problems turning the fabric under with a needle. It seems awkward to add another implement when you've already got your needle. Just my 2 cents.

FYI- for all you Cracker Barrel fans...there's coupons in our banner ads- LOL!