2 Questions re Table Topper
 

My first table topper. It does not have to be heat resistant. It is 25" sq. to cover a 16" table. She wants it to lay over the sides. Question is, what is the softest batting I can use to use to get this over drop. I plan to STID only. 2nd question involves applique; the whole thing is applique. On the first square, I was trimming back fabric away from the applique and cut the applique fabric in two places, so now I'm too afraid to trim any more. Will leaving the background on make it stiffer? May be my last table topper. TIA

You could use flannel for the batting. Try cutting with your scissors at an angle to trim the appliques. Don't give up. Anytime you try something new, it seems like you have problems. With practice, it seems easy.

I have made a couple runners and table toppers that have no batting. They sit nice and flat on the table, and the runners hang off either end of the table loosely.

If you use flannel, be sure to shrink it before using it.

I would consider Hobbs Thermore batting. It was originally designed for clothing, so it is thin and has a nice drape.

I almost never cut the fabric under appliqued pieces away unless it shows through. I think the finished product is more sturdy that way. Will it be washed a lot?

When I make table runners, placemats or centerpieces, I only use flannel. I do not want a wine glass to be wobbly when sitting on it. On some dresden (and all the seams) centerpieces, I do not use a batting at all. I simply back them with flannel.

I use a thin iron on fleece for table runners and placemats.

I use the iron on as well. Just be careful not 'iron' because you can distort the piece. Instead 'press', moving the iron to a different spot every few seconds.