Jackie --- I don't know if this would work, but you might try putting some 2 sides Steam-A-Seam on the back of the plate and then iron it onto the square of fabric before you stitch it down. I did NOT do that and didn't have any problems. If you don't want to do that, just be sure you lay it on a table (the background fabric and the plate) and pin it REALLY good with small applique pins.