terlyn

I’ve seen sweatshirts with quilt blocks added to the front. Do you think I would need to add batting and a backing to add some depth to it or just do the block with just the one layer ?
anyone have any pictures of something like this?

Iceblossom

A few years ago I used to see a lot more of that sort of thing, and I'm remembering a particular favorite Christmas one I had. From what I recall, the block and shirt were usually just fused together with interfacing and an applique or small zigzag stitch was used to hold down the edges. Often, the edges would be sealed with puffy paint type products.

Keep in mind that the normal outer seam allowance would need to be trimmed down some to give the proper look.

There are a number of modern videos and techniques. A quick google on "sweatshirt with quilt block" brought up all sorts of instructional sites and pictures.

cashs_mom

I wouldn't add batting to it unless you need to add some bulk to your body. A sweatshirt should be stable enough to just add the quilt block directly to it. You can do raw edge applique or turn the seam allowances under and zig zag down.

b.zang

I'd be tempted to add a lightweight stabilizer to the block back before stitching it to the shirt. Sweatshirts are robust enough to manage add-ons (remember bedazzling?) but the fabric is still stretchy and might want to distort the block.

cashs_mom

That's a good idea, Barbara. I think I'd do that also.

JENNR8R

The first time I wore this sweatshirt it got a grease stain on the front that wouldn't come off. I took an orphan block and turned under the edges like I would if I were going to needle-turn applique it. I adhered it to the sweatshirt with Lite Steam-a-Seam 2 and sewed a straight line, with thread that matched the block, close to the edges and used a light stabilizer. It was quick and easy. People have told me that they thought the sweatshirt came that way.

tropit

If you need to add bulk to your body, then I'm totally envious.

cashs_mom

Me, too! I'm trying to get rid of the some of the bulk now!