What is Applique?
Applique is a needlework technique which involves the application of layers of fabric onto a base fabric to create decorative effects. It is commonly used in quilting and sewing garments and the most popular method used is hand-stitching. However, there is also the possibility to applique with a regular sewing machine since it lends itself to many design possibilities.
Can You Applique with a Regular Sewing Machine?
Yes, you can applique with a regular sewing machine, as long as you have the right type of machine, know the appropriate technique and have the right supplies. Although the wider variety of applique techniques can be achieved by hand-stitching, with a regular sewing machine you can achieve very precise, neat and durable results.
What Type of Sewing Machine Is Needed?
To applique with a regular machine, you should look for a machine with presser feet and needle options that allow you to stitch decorative stitches. Most machines come with zig-zag and triple zig-zag presser feet and an applique presser foot, which is designed to stitch through multiple layers of fabric. Some machines may also offer a range of specialty feet that can help create a variety of decorative appliques.
What Supplies Are Needed?
To applique with a regular sewing machine, you will need applique scissors, a roll of applique paper, the layer of fabric that will be made into the applique, and the fabric or garment you will be applying the applique to. You will also need a range of different types of needles, including applique and embroidery needles, and quality sewing thread. Other helpful supplies include a pattern or template, as well as various buttons, beads, ribbons and other embellishments to complete the applique design.
What Is the Technique?
The basic applique technique involves trimming an image or design from another fabric, then pinning it to the main fabric. Once the design is pinned, you will need to use a zig-zag stitch to stitch around the edges of the applique to secure the two pieces of fabric together. If you wish to add detail to the applique, you can use a decorative stitch, such as a feather stitch, or even use a combination of stitches for a more complex design.
Alternative Techniques
In addition to the basic applique technique, you can also create an applique using a patchwork technique, a raw-edge technique, or a hand-stitched technique. The patchwork technique involves cutting out small pieces of fabric, arranging and stitching them together, and then attaching them to the main fabric. The raw-edge technique involves leaving the edges of the applique fabric raw, while the hand-stitched technique involves using small running stitches to secure the applique to the main fabric.
What Are the Benefits of Applique?
Applique is an interesting and creative way to give fabric a unique look. It can be used to create interesting abstract designs or intricate detailed designs, and can add a lot of character to a garment or a quilt. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, applique is also a very durable technique and can be machine or hand-washed, making it a great option for finishing a craft project.
How to Add Colour and Texture to Applique
Once you’ve appliqued your fabric design, you can add colour and texture to it by using various decorative techniques. These include embroidery, beading, ribbon embroidery, fabric painting, and hand-stitching. Each of these techniques can be used to create distinctive and unique effects, such as adding a 3D effect or incorporating different textures, like fur, velvet, or silk.
Different Fabrics Used in Applique
When selecting fabric for applique, you should choose fabric that is strong and suitable for the project you’re working on. Medium-weight cotton fabrics are often used as the main fabric, while lightweight sheer fabrics are sometimes used to create background layers. When adding detail to an applique, you can use fabrics such as lamé, wool, fur, velvet, silk, and organza.
How to Add Structure to Applique
In order to add structure to applique, you can use a stabilizer such as interfacing, which is a non-woven fabric that is used to give fabric items a more structured look. In addition to using interfacing, you can also add structure to an applique by using batting and backing. Batting is a layer of material that is added to the back of the applique to give it a more substantial look, while backing is a layer of bulky fabric that is used to add more body and stability to the applique.
How to Take Care of Applique
If you’re planning on washing or drying the item you have appliqued, you should consider pre-washing or pre-shrinking the fabric, as well as using an appropriate stabilizer or backing. In addition, you should take care when ironing applique garments and use a low heat setting. Finally, applique garments and quilts should generally be washed or dried according to the instructions given on the label.
