fxtrtr

I am wondering, being new to quilting and applique, what if you use a permanent adhesive and have a quilted design done all over the applique parts? Would stitching along the edges be necessary then? I want to do some appliques with my Accuquilt dies and want to be sure to get it right the first time!

MargeD

I've often used raw edge applique, particularly when I'm using Wonder Under or Steam A Seam, then I stitch close to the edge of the fabric and it works.

Bree123

fxtrtr,
There are quilters who do their applique & quilting all in one step. Whether that would work for you depends on how densely you plan to quilt it and how secure you want the edges of your applique. Over time, the more secure that 1/8" from the raw edge is, the less likely it is to fray (some people like the fraying -- it's a design choice). The most secure is to enclose the edge completely by turning it under before stitching. The second most secure would be to use a fusible web that goes in 1/4" from the edge on the back and then is satin stitched to the background. Third most secure (still almost never frays) would be to do fusible with a close blanket stitch or decorative stitch that mostly covers from the edge 1/8" into the applique piece. After that, the more spaced apart your stitches, the less they cover the edge inward, the more likely it is to fray. Fusible will slow down and reduce the amount of fraying, but with washing and handling, over time any edge not enclosed or securely stitched to the background will start to peel up and fray.

DOTTYMO

I use a zigzag just never liked buttonhole or satin stitch. I've just finished a quilt which I did embroidery stitches around the edge and on the shape. To hold piece in place used a small zigzag with I visible thread. Liked this finish.

reginalovesfabric

I do my blanket stitch by hand

canuckninepatch

When you use the words buttonhole stitch, do you mean blanket stitch?

stitch678

l've used the buttonhole stitch, keeping the straight part along the edges. l've also used a narrow zigzag, but some fabrics actually get pulverized by all those stitches close to the edge, and l've had to go back with a slightly wider stitch. lf you're not turning the edges under, nothing is 100%. l think quilting just on the outer edges as luvspaper suggests is excellent insurance.

linmid

A precious little giraffe, Is it your pattern or a bought one?

BETTY62

I love the blanket stitch and adjust the stitch size based on the size of the shape being appliqued.

Luv Quilts and Cats

I use a small zizzag or button hole stitch.