Trying to learn applique

[kansastroubles]

Hi Monica,
I just joined the forum after seeing Eleanor's Egg Money DVD which was just too wonderful. I had the same question you had about a year ago and spent alot of time looking at all the 'methods' and teaching resources out there. After spending alot of time looking, I finally came across a resource that I liked best, Linda Jenkins and Becky Goldsmith have a DVD called Applique the Piece O' Cake way. Once I saw that DVD, I understood needleturn applique. I like that method because I like to hand sew, which I find to be a very gentle art, which feels very peaceful to me, however, there are other methods besides this one so I can only speak to my own experiences and share them with you as just one of many to consider. Eli Sienkiewicz is another author applique quilt artist that has published alot of books on applique focused specifially on Baltimore Album quilts, and her last book, Baltimore Elegance offers alot of instruction - her preferred method is the freezer paper method (I tried this and found it awkward). Eleanor teaching a wonderful way to applique using a quick method if you don't have alot of time or don't enjoy hand sewing, I've tried that and its alot of fun - you basically sew your applique piece right sides together with a light stabilizer, cut a slit through the stabilizer to turn the piece right side out, then machine sew into place. The key is to make sure you have some tool like a bodkin (long slender stylus with a ball at the tip) to make sure your shapes are fully turned out. Whichever method you choose, its alot of fun. Learning how to quilt the quilt is another whole big wide world of fun and adventure and I have found that I have just scratched the tip of the ice berg with all the possiblities. There is a wonderful machine foot from Bernina demonstrated on their website (under accessories) which is very useful for sewing around your applique pieces when you quilt your quilt. Have fun and I hope you enjoy your new adventure!

[naniyosie]

I needleturn when I applique.
There are 2 books that I found very easy to understand. Mimi Dietrich's newest book and Darlene Christopherson's book.
Right now I am using Mimi's book; and trying different ways. I still like the needleturn.
My next project will be E's way.

[SFOQuilter]

Hi Monica,

I too am self taught. Never took a class until yesterday. My LQS had a 3 hour class on applique and WOW. Even though I had looked at several good and recommended books it really didn't make sense to me until I saw someone doing it and showing me. Now it seems a whole lot easier and I can hardly wait to start a project.

If you can find a class near you I would suggest you take one.

SFOQuilter
Michelle

[teacupdelights]

I am also very interested in applique, and the postings on this site offer so much information and shared experience(s). I copy & paste info from QIAD forums all the time, and have a looseleaf notebook where I keep the tips and techniques info. So thanks to all for the sharing and suggestions, and the references.

I hope to finish a very special pillow for my daughter before Christmas, an elegant design I am improvising...wish me luck.

Carol

[cindyg]

I love El's method of applique using the light weight non-woven fusible interfacing. I do have a problem when the pieces are small - they are too hard to turn.

[NinepatchNan]

Just recently I sau on a quilting tv program a lady demonstrate a way to applique using both freezer paper AND fusible. It was just a perfect way to do it but I can't remember all the steps. Primarily, I can't remember where the freezer paper came in to the process. I know she used the fusible to sew to the fabric, right sides together and then turn right sides out, press and the fuse to the background. That much I've got. But was the freezer paper just a pattern only? Was it ironed to the right or wrong side of the fabric? Did it remain? When was it removed? HELP! Surely someone else saw the program--I think it was on a Saturday morning--or knows what I am talking about.

I am a newbie. This is my first day as a member. I have been quilting since 1979, always hated applique, but recently have been trying to learn to like it. Also have recently learned to machine quilt which I LOVE. Now I might be able to actually make more of the quilts in my head!

I'll look forward to hearing from some of you all.
NinepatchNan

[kadie]

Hey NinepatchNan! Welcome!
Hey mama2ja! Welcome!

[swampangel]

I just finished Rosemary's "Woodland Creatures" quilt needle turn on black and am hand quilting it.I think The Applique Hand book by Becky Goldsmith & linda Jenkins is a great learning tool for needle turn.I think cutting out freezer paper, etc.takes too much time. I just got a book I would get if you want to machine applique.Piece by Piece by Sharon Schamber, she is a wonderful artist and am excited to try her method.I like Eleanor's method if you don't mind the bulk.Jump right in there applique is not difficult, just takes a bit of patience. Good luck!!

[MAWmum]

I love to do needle turn it just takes a little practice
I would also recomend the piece of cake dvd for needle turn those ladies are good at it.
When I have used the freezer paper and needle turned I pull it out when I have about an inch to go but most people cut a slit and pull it out. I have also used the freezer paper cut it out then turn the freezerpaper over and with the tip of my iron turned in the seams then I take out the freezerpaper. (clear as mud)