Skittl1321

I guess I would disagree with this. A tight satin stitch will finish the edge, but a blanket stitch or a loose zig zag on an unturned applique will still leave threads showing, and to me, that is raw edge still unless the ends are turned under.

But thank you for explaining how it is viewed by others.

(I also appreciate the notion of sewing inside the applique shape, purposefully leaving the edges to fray. That makes sense too.

Daisygirl

Well I learned something we today, thought raw edge meant sewing the appliqué like scrap lady explained. I usually do hand turned but I wanted something quick. Thank you everyone for answering my post. Have a lovely evening!

Scissor Queen

When I do blanket stitch the edge stitch is right on the edge of the applique. My machine does a stitch forward and one backward and then forward again so it has three threads right on the edge of the applique.

I have seen and heard fusible applique done with satin stitch or blanket stitch just called fusible applique.

BettyGee

I was always under the impression that raw edge meant that it would fray, giving it a feathered look. If that is what you want then go for it, the quilt police are on sabbatical. If it were me I would the blanket stitch on the lettering also or the invisible thread. I don't like the frayed look, but that what makes the world interesting. If we all liked the same things how boring.

BettyGee

Just saw another post, satin stitch around the lettering would really set it off.

MargeD

I think it's absolutely fine, using either matching thread to the fabric or invisible thread. It's your quilt - your rules.

carolynjo

In answer to Knitette, blanket stitch, zig-zag or satin stitch are methods to finish the edge to prevent raveling. Raw edge means you have done nothing to keep the edges from raveling and they will ravel every time the quilt is washed or if it is "brushed" to make the edges ravel.

fayby

Hi, I started patchwork and quilting before names were given, we just did whatever worked for us. I was pleasantly surprised when I was told that I was doing needle turn applique, I had been adding a flower and poking the edges under.

maxnme01

Raw edge applique is created by NOT USING FUSIBLE WEB to apply your applique to the foundation, OR cutting the fusible web smaller all around so that the edge of the fabric can "fray" and leave a fuzzy raggedy look around the edge. You would stitch approx. 1/4 inch in from the edge so that the edge of the fabric IS NOT attached to the foundation. Is that clearer? It makes for a creative way to applique and create texture, especially around flower edges. It's sort of a 3D look.

Scissor Queen

I have never had raw edge (straight stitch right next to the edge) fray. Most of the really intricate applique patterns are done with that technique and I've never seen any of it fray. (think McKenna Ryan)