first attempt at machine applique
10-14-2010, 07:59 PM
#21
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Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: Western Wisconsin
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I heavily starch background fabric for machine applique (1:1 solution of Sta-Flo liquid laundry starch and water). This makes it about as stiff as cardstock -- very stable, so it doesn't shift around as you sew. Also, if you ever decide to try satin stitch, the background fabric won't "tunnel" if it is heavily starched.
10-15-2010, 06:13 AM
#23
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Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: Lexington,Kentucky
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I also use my open toe foot and place one side at the edge ,on the applique. then I adjust my stitch size to lasnd where I want on the background. That may be obvious to some of us, but not always to beginnrs. All the other suggestions are great. Oh, and when you are reaching a narrower area, reduce the stitch width gradually.
10-15-2010, 08:29 AM
#24
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Location: on the Texas Coast
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a tearaway stabilizer is cheap, and so is washable school glue, I dilute it a bit with water, smear it here and there and press with the iron, it is stiff where the glue is so try not ot get it where you'll be stitching but it washes right out when the quilt is done.
10-15-2010, 08:41 AM
#25
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Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: Michigan
Posts: 2,916
Originally Posted by amma
Smaller pieces that stick out like in Santa, need a much narrower stitch.
You may want to use a stabilizer behind the fabric to reduce the puckering.
Stop with your needle down, and in the background fabric, lift your presser foot, readjust the fabric, lower the foot, and start sewing again. You will need to do this, instead of trying to "drive" the fabric under the presser foot. It will cause puckers and distort your applique if you don't. You may need to do this every few stitches, but it is still faster than hand sewing :wink:
You may want to use a stabilizer behind the fabric to reduce the puckering.
Stop with your needle down, and in the background fabric, lift your presser foot, readjust the fabric, lower the foot, and start sewing again. You will need to do this, instead of trying to "drive" the fabric under the presser foot. It will cause puckers and distort your applique if you don't. You may need to do this every few stitches, but it is still faster than hand sewing :wink:
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