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According to the Oxford dictionary, applique is ornamental needlework in which pieces of fabric are sewn or stuck onto a large piece of fabric to form pictures or patterns.This is one of my favorite methods of creating quilt blocks. There are several ways of attaching the applique piece: 1) a blind stitch done by hand 2) a blanket stitch done by hand, 3) a blanket stitch done on a machine, 4) a zig zag stitch done on the machine.
This is an example of applique done with a zig zag stitch on the machine. One of the most popular patterns from when I was growing up was Sunbonnet Sue. She has a partner named Overall Bill, who is less well known. Sunbonnet Sue has multiple patterns. This is just one of them.
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Another popular pattern is the dresden plate. This is done by hand with a blind stitch.
This is an example of Hawaiian style applique. This is also appliqued by hand with a blind stitch. The last ⅛ to ¼ inch of the fabric is turned under. Stitches are close together and hidden.
This is an example of applique done with a zig zag on a machine. A short stitch length is used, and a wide zig-zag to insure catching the edge of the fabric so it doesn’t ravel.
This is an example of applique done with a blanket stitch on the edge of the fabric. This one is done with two strands of embroidery floss, and stitches are done close together to help prevent raveling.
Most people are familiar with applique. There is also reverse applique. According to freedictionary.com, reverse applique is a sewing craft in which an outline is cut from a top layer of fabric and the raw edges are turned under and stitched to expose one or more layers of fabric underneath. In this case, I didn’t turn the edges under, because I wanted the sweatshirt material to curl in a frame around the background material.
