I have used fusible applique and found the fabric to be stiff afterwards. So I then tried elmers glue to keep the applique adhered to the fabric...the fabric wasn't stiff, but leaves some marks on the fabric. Will that wash out? I have also tried a glue stick...with some success too. I have heard of window applique. What is that and does the fabric remain stiff? :?: :?: :?:

The Elmer's glue will wash out. I like to cut the center out of the fusible and just leave 1/4" or so around the edge (I believe that is the window applique you are referring to). For example, you cut a circle, then you cut 1/4 inside the circle and just fuse the ring. That way, the rest stays soft and you can quilt if you want an it won't gum up the needle so much. I also like to use Lite Steam-a-seam. That in itself is a little softer than some of them.

Yes, yes, yes....makes all the difference doing a window...takes a little extra time (which we all have a lot of) but the results are very different and quite nice.

There's a product called Shades Softfuse......It's very expensive, but isn't stiff at all....Makes for wonderful machine applique....

heat n bond has not only the light, but also the Featheweight now! Mistyfuse is also very light weight.

If you iron the Elmer's glue, it could yellow the fabric later on!

if you use a lightweight fusable --- like steam a seam lite or heat & bond lite- when the finished project is laundered-it softens right up. the only ones that stay stiff are the heavier ones not meant to be sewn.- the ones used for wallhangings that are not intended to be laundered- or used as a quilt.
elmers glue and glue sticks wash out when laundered too. if you want it to be really soft while still working on it- try misty fuse-
also windowing means you trace your shape- then when you cut it out you also cut out the center of it- so only about 1/4" of it is adhered to the fabric- the center does not have fusable- it's only around the edges.

Ditto on all the above...leave the 1/4 cut out center of lite heat bond (I use) I also use Wonder under...washable glue stick also good.

I prefer Steam-A-Seam 2 and cut out leaving 1/4 inch as mentioned.