How to do Applique in Textile: Types of Applique Work for Beginners

As a textile artist, you know there are endless techniques to explore in creating unique and engaging designs. One decorative technique that produces stunning results is applique. Applique involves stitching cut-out fabric pieces onto a larger base fabric to form patterns or pictures. Mastering applique opens up a world of creative possibilities, allowing you to add texture, color, and visual interest to your textile projects. This article provides an overview of common applique techniques, tips for getting started, and how to take your applique skills to the next level. With some basic supplies and a little practice, you’ll be creating custom applique designs in no time. So gather your fabrics, thread your needle, and let’s get stitching. The world of applique awaits!

What Is Applique in Textiles?

A Brief Overview of the Technique

What Is Applique in Textiles? A Brief Overview of the Technique

Applique is a textile technique where pieces of fabric are sewn or glued onto a larger piece to form decorative designs. The term comes from the French word appliquer, meaning “to put on.” Applique work can be done by hand or machine.

• Hand applique involves cutting fabric pieces and stitching them onto the base fabric by hand. This method allows for intricate designs and details but requires more time and skill.
• Machine applique uses a sewing machine to attach the applique pieces. This speeds up the process but limits the complexity of designs. Many sewers will do rough cuts and shaping by machine, then finish details by hand.

Some common applique techniques include:

• Fusible web applique: where applique pieces are ironed onto the base fabric. This is fast and easy but not as durable.
• Raw edge applique: where applique pieces are stitched onto the edge of the base fabric, then the edges are left unfinished. This has a casual, folksy look.
• Reverse applique: where a base fabric is cut away and a second fabric is stitched underneath, then the edges are folded under and stitched down. This results in a neat, tailored finish.

With some practice, you’ll be creating custom appliqued textiles in no time. Applique work can be used to mend or reinforce fabrics, for decorative home furnishings like pillows or wall hangings, or to embellish garments. Unleash your creativity – the possibilities are endless!

Types of Applique:

Needle Turn Applique vs Fusible Web Applique

When doing applique, there are two main techniques you can use: needle turn applique and fusible web applique. Both methods have their merits, so choosing between them depends on your skill level, project needs, and personal preference.

Needle Turn Applique:

Needle turn applique involves hand stitching fabric pieces onto a base fabric for a very traditional look. To do needle turn applique:

1. Cut your applique pieces, leaving a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
2. Pin or baste the pieces onto the base fabric and stitch around the edge using a blind stitch or invisible stitch.
3. Carefully trim away the excess seam allowance as you stitch.
4. Finish by tying off securely on the backside.

Fusible web applique:

Fusible web applique uses an iron-on adhesive to fuse the applique pieces onto the base fabric. This method is faster but may not have the same handcrafted appearance. To do fusible web applique:

1. Cut your applique pieces, leaving no seam allowance.
2. Iron the fusible web onto the wrong side of the applique pieces as directed.
3. Remove the paper backing from the fusible web.
4. Place the applique pieces on the base fabric and press with an iron to adhere them.
5. Finish the edges with a satin stitch on a sewing machine or by hand.

Both of these techniques will allow you to create stunning applique projects. With some practice, you’ll be designing custom appliques in no time. Whichever method you choose, take your time and pay attention to detail for the best results.

Essential Supplies for Applique

To get started with applique, you will need to gather some essential supplies.

Choose a base fabric for your project and fabrics for the applique shapes. For the base, pick a tightly woven cotton or linen. For the applique, consider felt, corduroy, denim or patterned cotton fabrics. You will also need iron-on interfacing to adhere the applique fabric to the base.

Read Also: The Art of Textile Designing: A Comprehensive Guide

Thread:

Use cotton thread that closely matches your applique and base fabrics. For sewing the applique edges or attaching embellishments, choose a thread color that blends in or provides contrast, depending on your design goals.

Needles:

Stock up on hand-sewing needles in a variety of sizes like sharps, milliners, crewel, and embroidery needles. The appropriate needle size depends on your thread choice and the weight of your fabrics.

Scissors:

Invest in a pair of sharp fabric scissors or applique scissors, as well as small embroidery scissors for more intricate cuts. Rotary cutters, cutting mats, and quilter’s rulers can also be useful for achieving smooth, accurate cuts and shapes.

Adhesives:

In addition to iron-on interfacing, have fabric glue, fusible web, or double-sided fusible tape on hand for adhering smaller pieces or tight corners where ironing is difficult.

Additional tools

• Seam ripper for correcting mistakes
• Pins or clips to hold pieces in place before fusing or sewing
• Pinking shears to finish raw edges
• Marking tools like tailor’s chalk, washable markers or stencils
• Iron and pressing pad

With the proper essential supplies in your craft kit, you’ll be designing and creating custom applique projects in no time. Be sure to also consider factors like placement, stitching, and finishing techniques to achieve professional-looking results.

How to Do Applique: Step-by-Step Instructions

To do applique, follow these steps:

Gather your supplies

You will need the following:

• Fabric for the base and applique
• Fusible web or applique adhesive
• Scissors
• Needle and thread (or sewing machine)
• Iron
• Pencil, chalk, or washable marker

Prepare the applique fabric

Cut your applique fabric into the desired shape. Then, trace the shape onto the fusible web or apply the applique adhesive to the back of the fabric following the directions on the product. Let it set as directed.

Attach the applique to the base fabric

Place the applique fabric onto the base fabric in the desired position. Press with an iron to fuse or adhere it in place.

Stitch around the edges

Using a straight stitch on your sewing machine or needle and thread, stitch around the outer edges of the applique to securely attach it to the base fabric. You can also do a blanket stitch or satin stitch around the edges for a more decorative look.

Add details or layers (optional)

If desired, you can add additional details or layers on top of the applique. Fuse or adhere smaller pieces of fabric onto the applique and stitch them on, or add embroidery, beading, or sequins for extra embellishment.

Seal and Protect (optional)

Apply a sealant like Fray Check or a waterproofing product to the edges and stitches to prevent unraveling, especially for garments or items that will be washed. You can also apply an iron-on patch to the back of the applique for extra protection and durability.

Following these steps will allow you to create a beautiful and long-lasting applique project. Take your time and be patient learning the proper techniques. With regular practice, applique can become an enjoyable and rewarding craft.

Applique Patterns and Projects to Try

Simple Shapes

Some easy applique patterns to start with include simple shapes like circles, squares, triangles, and hearts. You can cut the shapes from felt, denim, corduroy or patterned fabric and attach them to a base fabric using your preferred applique technique. Arrange multiple shapes into a geometric pattern or collage for an eye-catching design. Simple shapes are ideal for beginners and children’s projects.

Letters and Monograms

Once you have mastered basic shapes, move on to letters and monograms. Felt letters in a contrasting color make a personalized statement on linens, clothing, and accessories. Consider spelling out a name, initials or inspirational word or phrase. For a custom monogram, cut two or three letters from the same style of font and attach them side by side. Take measurements to ensure the letters are evenly spaced and aligned before permanently adhering them.

Read Also: Tips on Embroidery Stiches to Take Your Designs Next Level

Nature Inspired

Floral, leaf and botanical applique patterns are always popular choices. For a floral design, cut petal shapes from different fabrics and layer them to form realistic or whimsical flowers. Leaf shapes in fall hues of orange, red and yellow make a lovely seasonal applique project. You can also create custom patterns by tracing real or artificial leaves and petals. Nature inspired appliques are perfect for table linens, wall hangings, clothing and outdoor decor.

Whimsical Designs

Don’t limit yourself to traditional applique patterns. Get creative with fun and whimsical designs like animals, mythical creatures, storybook characters or emojis. Let your imagination guide you as you sketch and cut a one-of-a-kind design from felt or brightly patterned fabrics. Whimsical appliques are ideal for children’s clothing, nursery decor, backpacks, device cases and more. Your unique creation is sure to bring joy to its recipient.

With some practice, you will be designing and creating your own custom applique patterns in no time. Start with a simple shape or pattern, then build up to more complex designs as your skills improve. Applique is a fun and rewarding technique, so take your time and enjoy the creative process!

Conclusion

You now have the skills and knowledge to embark on your own applique textile project. Whether following a pattern or designing a unique piece, applique allows you to add color, texture, and visual interest to fabric. By bonding layers together with the stitching of your choice, you can create anything from subtle accents to bold focal points. The possibilities are endless. So gather your materials, pin, cut, fuse or stitch, and make your mark. Applique awaits your creativity. Express yourself, inspire others, and contribute to this timeless art form. You have the tools, now follow your passion. The world of textile applique is at your fingertips.