Be sure to check out Shabby Fabrics.com and her blog. She has videos on Youtube also that are very informative if you are interested in a variety of needle-turned applique. I've tried it and found it easy but time-consuming. Loved the end results, though!

Thank you for starting this thread topic. I recently decided that 2013 is the year I would like to learn applique. So many resources mentioned beyond anything I could find on my own. Shout out to all the wonderful quilters on this board - woohoo!

Well, I do raw edge applique with embroidery thread and the buttonhole stitch. Then I use Fray Check that dries clear and soft to seal the edges. It's easier than using fusible on the backside.

Enjoy! My preference is needleturn, although I do some machine applique. I detest "prepared" applique, as I think all the pressing of the applique pieces is more work than the "harder" needleturn. Elly Sienkiewicz isthe queen of hand applique and has a number of books out. Rodale Press has a wonderful beginner's book on applique that covers several methods. Whatwever method you decide to use, have a great time.

I agree. I love seeing what everyone else does in needle-turn applique, but it is definitely not my thing. The older I get and the more arthritic I get, the harder it is for me I do everything by machine except stitching down the binding.