Though I have made many quilts, I have not learned the art of applique. My first attempt is not looking as well as I would like. Before I pick it apart a second time, I would appreciate advice. I am doing a family tree with names on branches and leaves. The trunk of the tree is the length of the wall hanging approx 50 inchs. I have a very nice tunnel going on behind that tree. It looks better than the first attempt but still has a way to go before my 90 year old mother-in-law gets it for her birthday. (Saturday) Help is needed. My thanks in advance to you.

can you post a picture so we can see what is going on with the tunnel

Sounds to me like you need a stabilizer. Just try your printer paper if you have nothing else. It will stop the tunnels.

starch and lots of pins
after you stitch one side of the tree- starch it nice and smooth- pin every inch or so down the other side and stitch away-
or use some sort of stablizer- starch usually works for me (and lots of pins)

Thanks for the advice. I'll use more starch and pins. Here goes round three.

a tearaway stabilizer works wonders

WOW - never thought about a tunnel - I can't wait to see any kind of picture. Starch & pins here too