Question about machine applique

[suzette58]

I bought 2 layer cake sets from Moda. I am thinking about a quilt I want to make for our great niece. What I was thinking of is, leave the squares 10" and after I figure out how many I need for the quilt itself. I was thinking of taking the leftovers and appliquing simple shapes on some of the squares. Now the question, when I applique something on the 10 inch square does it pull the square in some? Making it smaller then one without an applique?
Suzette58

[ctherrie]

I think it is going to shrink in a little. It depends on what kind of stitch you are using to applique. The heavier the stitch the more it might pull in. I usually use a blanket stitch and add a inch to my block then after I do the applique I square it up to the size I need to finish the quilt

[Joannequilts]

Suzette58, most times the block will shrink after applique..sometimes alot. What I would do is set aside your 10" blocks (I assume that you are going to use them "whole" in between the applique blocks). Do all your applique blocks and measure each one, then cut them all to match the smallest one and use that measurement for the alternate "whole" blocks.
Hopes this helps!

Joanne:0)

[sewbug]

I just love the layer cakes! It's like having a mini stash you can carry around with you. I like to cut them in half diagonally and make big pinwheel blocks for a fast quilt.

[suzette58]

Thanks for the input. I figured the appliqued block would shrink some. Sewbug had a great idea of making pinwheel blocks. I knew I would get the help I needed as well as other ideas. Thanks!!
Suzette58

[khowardquilts]

You might want to cut some other fabric over sized for your applique blocks and then trim to 10". I would guess that you would need to start with at least 11", but you might want 12". That would give you more room to center and trim. I haven't done a lot of applique.

Kathy