Basic Applique Instructions  

                  2007,2008,2009 @ Shari Marie Creations 
                         www.sharimariecreations.com



1. Choose fabrics you want to use for your applique design. Some designs have more than
   one area for fabric to be appliqued so you may want a few coordinating fabrics for those designs.
    
   ** When you are hooped and ready, follow the color sequences as they appear. When you come to a
   GOLD outline, you will know it is almost time for the fabric to be added and follow the
   instructions below. Sometimes it is the very first thing, and other times there may be 
   one or a few color changes before you come to this Gold Outline. Some designs may have 
   more than one area to be appliqued. Follow the same instructions for those appliques too.

2. In the color sequences, GOLD= outline stitches. These are only placement 
   lines to show you where you will be placing the Fabric in the next step.
   I DO NOT actually use gold thread, it is just to help identify that they are the 
   outline stitches.  I use a color that will compliment or match my fabrics.

3. Once the placement outline is stitched, lay a piece the fabric you chose over
   the placement outline of your design, making sure that it completely 
   overlaps all of the placement line.

4. The next series of stitches are shown in RED.  These will be your
   tack down stitches.  Again, I do not actually use red thread, you will  
   go ahead and just use the same thread you used for the placement lines.
   Carefully hold it in place while it is being tacked down, and keep your 
   fingers clear of the needle. You can use a temporary adhesive spray if
   you are used to doing appliques with it. It does help hold the fabric where
   it belongs but it is ok if you don't have it.

5. Once the tack down stitches are complete, remove the HOOP from 
   your machine BUT DO NOT unhoop anything from the hoop.  Carefully trim the excess fabric as 
   close as you can. Take your time, making sure you do not clip any of the tack down stitches.
  
6. Put the hoop back on the machine and continue the rest of the thread sequences. 
   Depending on the design, satin stitches and/or fill stitches will hide the raw edges of the 
   fabric by the time you finish the design.

Applique is one of my favorite forms of machine embroidery. I hope you enjoy them too.

ShariMarie

2007, 2008, 2009 @SMC




     
 
