I am brand new to applique. I thought I would start small and I downloaded a poodle pattern. I've cut out the pieces and applied them using fusable web to a plain square. Now I'm not sure what to do. Do I blanket stich around the pieces before or after I've made the quilt sandwich? Am I better off hand sewing or maching sewing the first time around? For this particular project once I am done I will bind it without any borders or detail and use it as a kennel quilt for my new toy poodle.... had to start with something that was okay to screw up :wink: Please help with your suggestions.

Do the blanket stitching before you sandwich the quilt. Machine or hand -- do whatever you prefer and what's easier for you. I always applique by hand because I prefer it. Good luck and have fun.

If it's for a large quilt to be used on a bed I do the blanket stitch before I sandwich it together. Sometimes for wall hangings I do the blanket stitch as part of the quilting after it's sandwiched together. It's all up to you and the look you're going for or how it's going to be used.