Monday, March 22, 2021

HAND APPLIQUE ON A V-POINT

 My favorite applique method is freezer paper on top. I trace motifs onto freezer paper and cut them out to make templates which are then ironed to the front of the applique fabrics. Seam allowance is cut around the templates adding 3/16”. 

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.

If you were able to see underneath the applique after stitching is completed, this is how the cut will appear. 

The seam allowance will spread wide apart; therefore, the V MUST be secured.





Keep Stitching!
Barbara M. Burnham

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