Applique Stems and Vines - So Many Methods!

A valuable resource for your applique library, or gift for your applique friends.

This 22-page handbook explains 18 DIFFERENT METHODS to make applique stems and vines, basket weavers, and more. Try different methods for curved or straight stems, by hand or by machine, with or without special tools. Learn which methods work best for each situation, and when to use bias or straight grain fabric.

Photos and graphics show examples to ensure your applique success. Helpful tips and tricks are scattered throughout.
For example:  Here is an easy way to determine how long to make stems for your project:

"Measure the length of stem with a flexible measuring tape. Stand the tape on its edge against the pattern. Add 1/2 inch for overlap at each end." For lots of stems, keep holding the tape at that measurement, and continue along the tape to measure the next stem. As you measure, checkmark each stem on your pattern or write the length needed.

We all have our favorite method of making applique stems. My personal favorite is using bias bars. But what if I’m traveling with no sewing machine, no bias bars, rulers, rotary cutters or mat. What to do? Maybe you prefer Clover(R) Bias Tape Makers, but don’t have the right size, or forgot where you put them?

Find the best way to arrange stems onto your block. Achieve graceful curves or dimensional stems. Use modern tools and sewing machines, or sew by hand with minimal tools. Discover the value of a hera marker. Be inspired by methods found on antique and vintage applique quilts. Weave an applique basket. Try backbasting applique. Learn about Neverending Stems and Stained Glass Applique. Add new skills to your applique repertoire and have some fun.
PLUS – You will also receive “Which Method for Your Project?” rating each method as Good for Curves? Easy to Turn Stem Ends? Narrowest/Widest? Easy for Beginners? (These questions are explored in my Applique Stems and Vines workshop.)

Use Paypal to purchase the book at my website. Questions or need a shipping quote for additional copies? Contact me at my website: http://www.barbaramburnham.com

Keep Stitching!
Barbara M. Burnham
Author of Baltimore Garden Quilt


(c) 2015 Barbara M. Burnham. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any kind is expressly prohibited without prior written authorization.

APPLIQUE! Workshops at AQS Chattanooga, September 10-13, 2014

Join us in Chattanooga, Tennessee at the American Quilter's Society QuiltWeek for some applique!  Whether you are a beginner or advanced appliquer, have fun learning new techniques in Chattanooga. I will be teaching FOUR applique workshops, plus free demos of Applique Basket Weaving. Some workshops are almost FULL, so hurry and register. Hope to see you there!

Enjoy over 500 quilts, including the incredible AQS contest quilts! My quilt "M.E.C. Remembered" from the book Baltimore Garden Quilt will also be on exhibit.  

#63501 Edge-Ruched Flower and Bud

Wednesday 1:00-4:00 pm

SOLD OUT Dress up your appliqué quilts or clothing with easy edge-ruched flowers and buds. Learn easy techniques to finish this little block. Start with a simple leaf and stem and learn to appliqué smooth curves. Sew a fancy ruched flower and a bud bursting from its calyx. Add a stuffed circle or button to finish your ruched flower. I will also show you how to turn your ruched flowers into fabric jewelry to wear.

http://www.quiltweek.com/workshops/63501-edged-ruched-flower-and-bud/?portfolioID=13202

#63101 Cherry Tree Birds

Thursday 8:30am-4:00pm

SOLD OUT Four hungry birds in a cherry tree appear on an antique quilt featured in Barbara’s book Baltimore Garden Quilt. Plan traditional colors of red and green, or go wild from your fabric stash as Barbara shows you the techniques needed to finish this block including: how to choose fabrics, organize and manage lots of pieces, and accurately place the pattern without marking the background. Learn how to needle-turn smooth curves and points with the freezer paper on-top method. Make perfectly round, stuffed cherries with super skinny appliquéd cherry stems. Raise your skills to a new level, and learn to sew tiny appliqué on a bird’s eyes and legs, or use embroidery techniques for details. Experiment with layered appliqué and off-block appliqué techniques. Barbara will offer tips, tricks, and ideas to make your hand appliqué even faster. http://www.quiltweek.com/workshops/63101-cherry-tree-birds/?portfolioID=13202

#63502 Baltimore Garden Tulips

Friday 8:30-11:30am

SOLD OUT Inspired by an antique appliqué quilt, perky tulips are clipped from the larger pattern in Barbara’’s book Baltimore Garden Quilt. Learn to hand appliqué smooth curves and soft leaf points. With freezer paper on-top as your guide for needle-turn, master the V-points in the tulip and inner U-curves of unfurled tulip buds. Choose from several methods to make graceful curved stems. Barbara will offer tips and tricks to make your hand appliqué faster, and how to manage accurate placement of appliqué pieces without marking the background.
http://www.quiltweek.com/workshops/63502-baltimore-garden-tulips/?portfolioID=13202

#63503 Applique Stems and Vines

Saturday 8:30-11:30am

SOLD OUT Start as a beginner or expand your appliqué toolbox! Barbara will demonstrate as many methods as time allows to make stems, vines, and basket weaves for various styles of hand or machine appliqué. Determine which methods are best for each appliqué situation. Learn about bias and straight grain, when each cut is most effective, and easily figure out how long and how wide to cut fabric for stems and vines to fit your project. Learn several methods of stem placement, how to neatly turn under cut stem ends, and how to reduce bulk or add dimension. Handout booklet is loaded with graphics, tips, and tricks for eighteen different methods. Choose a few methods to sew stems on your class project, or make samples to store in your booklet for future reference. Top off your stems with colorful yo-yos or add flowers of your choice. http://www.quiltweek.com/workshops/63502-baltimore-garden-tulips/?portfolioID=13202

See you in Chattanooga!

Barbara M. Burnham

www.barbaramburnham.com/