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A copy of my blog.

Subject: A copy of my blog

Appliqué is a crafting technique in which pieces of material are mounted to a base material. It is often used in quilting to add to the overall design, or to enhance special features. Appliqué is a very old art form and it is very easy to learn, although it can take a long time to become a master of the art.
The word comes from the French appliquer, which means, "to apply." To create appliqué, artists start with a base, which could be a quilt, or a quilt block. Shapes are cut from fabrics or other textiles and attached to the base. It is also possible to make appliqué with ribbons, cords, sequins, beads, and other materials. The applied material is then firmly attached in place.
Some crafters appliqué with the use of a sewing machine and a zigzag or other decorative stitch, as pictured here.

Other crafters use a decorative hand stitching to cover the edges of the shapes.

The pieces using a turned under seam allowance do not, ordinarily, use fusing. They are attached using machine or hand stitches. Pieces with no seam allowance usually have a bonding material on the back and are ironed in place then stitched. The use of machine or hand stitching is up to the artist. I prefer to use fusible bond for projects that will not be laundered regularly, like wall hangings, seasonal table runners and things of that nature, and I prefer to use machine stitching or a turned under seam allowance for things that will be laundered regularly, like quilts or quilted clothing.
Another important piece of information when using bonding is; you trace your pattern onto the paper side of the bond, the pattern is then cut out and ironed to the wrong side of your fabric. The pattern is cut out once again and turned over and ironed to the base piece. What this means is that you need to think about the direction your patterns face before you cut them out, as they will be reversed on the finished project.
Here is a Utube video showing the process of hand stitching the applique.

The new lightweight fusible bonds make appliqué work easier and quicker. Be sure to follow the manufacture's directions when applying.
Fabric choices and availability for today's quilters are almost endless. Year round colors and designs, holiday specific fabrics, animals, school related themes, flowers, geometric, and the list goes on. Start simple and master the basics…………. Then let the creative juices flow.
Until next time,
Sooz
Here is a very easy birdhouse pattern for beginners that can be found, along with other patterns at :
www.freeapplique.com/Patterns/birdpat2.html
Quilter's World