The applique pieces are arranged and thread basted onto the background fabric and appliqued with needleturn using the freezer paper edge as a turning guide. As I am right handed, so I stitch from right to left.
To applique a V-Point, such as the indentation of a heart shape, here is my advice, step by step:
• As
you get close to the V-point, you will not be able to easily turn the seam
allowance under. So you must make a clip in the seam allowance. Use a small,
sharp scissor that can cut all the way to its tip. Hold the scissor
perpendicular to the V, and make JUST ONE CLIP into the seam allowance. Do not
clip all the way into the freezer paper – leave one or two threads of fabric uncut.
• Approaching
the V-point area, make shorter (closer) applique stitches. Continue turning the
seam allowance under, and stitch all of the first side of the clip. Make the
last stitch into the V slightly DEEPER than usual, and at a slight angle
as shown at (1).
• Sweep
any frays under with the needle, and hold them down with your thumb. Take the
next stitch shown at (2) slightly DEEPER than usual into the center of
the V.
• Turn
under the seam allowance of the second side, sweeping under any frays, and take
another DEEP stitch into the V-point at (3). This DEEPER stitch
can be angled slightly toward the second side of the V, as shown.
• These angled stitches must be made with a STAB STITCH (needle goes straight up and straight down through the block), and they form what I call a “bird’s foot.” If you use matching thread, the deeper stitches will not be noticeable, and they will encase any frays.
(c)2021 Barbara M. Burnham. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any kind is expressly prohibited without prior written authorization.
