Experience tells me using a stabilizer makes a world of difference for applique, whats the best and most reasonable?

Depends on what i am applique-ing.

Sometimes freezer paper and sometimes wash-away stabilizer. I have even used another piece of the fabric.

If I use freezer paper, after I have done my sewing I spritz the paper with water and let it sit then tear it out. Mind, I have used a shorter stitch length when doing it this way.

ali

When I machine applique, I use stitch-n-tear on the backside and most of the time do a blanket stitch on the applique. It makes such a difference in the quality of stitches using a stabilizer. When it's all done, I tear away the stabilizer. I'm thinking of trying a wash away stabilizer sometime. Hopefully someone will have experience with that and share their thoughts.

I use a stitch and tear product. Makes a big difference in the smoothness of the appliquing. I haven't tried the wash away ones but might be worth a try. Good Luck.

It depends. I have used coffee filters and just wet it a bit to remove, I have use a tear away stabilizer, and if it is a small enough project and I can leave it in place, I will use Ricky Tims Stable Stuff. If is an amazing stabilizer and if you leave it in place, when it gets wet if becomes very soft and flexible without adding extra puff to the quilt.

I'm following this thread with great interest. I have sooooooo much to learn.

I use stitch and tear! I won't applique without it, it does make a huge difference. I have used wash away , but for the price , I stay with stitch and tear. The wash away is too pricey for the amount I use.

Me, too! I know it makes the applique look way better using it.

I've used fuseable interfacing. Sew it to what needs to be appliqued. Cut around the excess. Put slit in the interfacing so you can turn it. Poke out all corners and run a knitting needle around the curves. Fuse into place (no pinning, and no need to remove the interfacing.)

I just use notebook paper. It works fine and tears away.