Practical Appliqué Tips

Aug 1, 2008

Applique is a creative way to save time and stitch counts by replacing fill stitches with fabric. (Photo courtesy of Stalhs').

Appliqué is the process that replaces fill stitches with fabric and is a creative way to increase your margins, save stitches and time, and deliver quality results. Appliqué is a three-step process in machine embroidery. The first step is creating a placement line, which is a running stitch that sews on the garment to tell you exactly where to place the appliqué.

Next is the tack-down stitch that is run just on the inside of the appliqué to hold it into position. The last step is the final border stitch, which can be a zigzag, satin or decorative stitch.

Here are some additional appliqué tips:

• Appliqué Hooping: When creating appliqué designs, make sure your hoop is tight within the hoop wells. Some hoop assemblies will produce "play," allowing the appliqué registration to move.

• Appliqué Backing: A good, stiff backing is important to help stabilize the garment and holds stitches. Tearaway works for heavy garments. Light garments or heavy stitching may require cutaway.

• Appliqué Finishing: Heat seal your appliqué design after sewing. This prevents puckering, giving you a professionally finished garment.

• Appliqué Sales: Create a portfolio of appliqué designs as a sales tool. Finished samples will help you explain the technique to customers and make the sale. — Information provided by Pat Williams, Image Embroidery, Sierra Vista, Ariz.

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