Sewing and other handicrafts are seeing a huge boom recently. Part of the trend is due to the therapeutic benefits of the hobby.
When you sew, you not only create beautiful things you can be proud of, but you can improve your health. You can relieve stress and anxiety, improve your fine motor skills, promote brain cell production, release more dopamine, and help prevent dementia.
Knowing this, it’s a great idea to learn how to applique. Practicing more difficult sewing techniques can likely increase the positive effects of this hobby. Look for classes near you where you can learn techniques.
To find out more about how to applique like a pro, continue reading the guide below.
What Is Applique?
Applique is a complex form of needlework that results in ornamental designs. The process is essentially the act of sewing a smaller piece of fabric onto a larger piece. It can, however, consist of many pieces of fabric sewn to create an intricate design.
This fascinating technique can even be dated back to the ancient Egyptians. In fact, cultures around the world use it to create beautiful garments.
How to Applique
Like most sewing projects, applique can be a time-consuming activity. If you go with a simpler design, however, it can be an easy project. Of course, there are many steps to follow, and your decisions at each step can add time to your project.
Choose Your Design
Before you begin working, you need to choose a design. You can find a pre-made design from a template, or create your own.
It’s no surprise that creating your own applique design will take time. Make sure to use fabric scraps first so you don’t ruin your intended fabric. The more tight corners in your design, the more difficult it will be to sew.
Preparing Your Design
For the next step, you’ll need template plastic or cardstock. You will trace and cut your design on this.
Once you have the fabric in the right shape, use fusible or transfer web to temporarily adhere it to the surface you’re sewing it onto. This will make it much easier to sew correctly.
By Hand vs. by Machine
Lastly, decide how you want to sew your applique. More specifically, do you want to do it by hand or by machine? Again, this will affect the time it takes to complete the project.
The main difference here is that a machine cannot turn under the edges of the design. It can, however, save you loads of time. With a machine, you can choose between a satin stitch, blanket stitch, straight stitch, or zig-zag stitch.
Remember that the color of your thread will make a huge difference in the finished product. Complementary colors will make the edges of your design stand out, while analogous colors will make the edges blend into the backing fabric.
How to Applique and More
Learning how to applique is not the easiest process, but it’s a beneficial one. Once you master the technique, you can make unique gifts for friends and family that no one could ever find in a store.
If you’re looking for the perfect machine to start your applique adventure, don’t forget to check out our Baby Lock or Brother embroidery and sewing machines.