Over the last few weeks I have shared 5 mini tutorial videos demonstrating steps for hand applique, from preparing templates to making stems to stitching points and inside corners. To see these videos, you can go to my last blog post: Applique Mini Video Tutorial – Part 5 
There you will find the final video as well as links to parts 1-4.

So now on to some up close views of stitching. To get started, you will want to come up from under the project with your needle catching the edge of the seam allowance of the applique piece:

Next, this is a photo of how I use the tip of the needle to sweep the clipped seam allowance under the applique piece before continuing to stitch…. this is where the term “needle-turn” hand applique comes from. 

Now, insert your needle right next to where you came up but in the background fabric only:

Next, come back up with your needle once again catching the edge of the seam allowance:

By stitching this way, as you can see by this close up photo, the stitches show as small “dots” on the top of your project!

Using threads that match the color of your applique piece, or neutral threads that match closely, you can achieve almost invisible stitches. My favorite threads to use are 100% 50wt cotton threads with a silk finish. I like Mettler brand the best.

And my favorite needles are John James Gold ‘n Glide. I use size 9 which is the correct length for me. Try different size needles to see which is the best for you. Remember, the larger the number the shorter the needle.

 

So that’s it for my “up close” stitching! If you have some tips, questions or comments, feel free to post below. I will be holding a drawing for a free applique pattern from those of you who comment! Here’s the pattern you can win:

The drawing will be held on Tuesday, June 11th. ***We have a winner! Congrats, June!***

Until next time…. Happy stitching!
Deanne