Learning About Applique Instructions Online – Sewing Machines Los Angeles

When you take up any new craft, one of the hardest parts is learning how to do it. With all the education sites on the Internet now, you will be able to find good tutorials on almost any subject. If applique is something you’ve always wondered about, you can find applique instructions online that will teach you how to do the craft as well as some creative and interesting designs.

In its simplest form, applique is the securing of one piece of fabric over another in a decorative form and sometimes with decorative stitching. The overlay pieces can be in matching or contrasting fabric colors. The overlay might be patterned. The fabric itself might be the same weight and type or it could vary widely although it would be more common to applique light or softer fabrics onto heavier materials.

Applique projects often are similar to quilting in that they are padded and backed. They can also be household crafts that are decorative or whimsical. Applique can be used for decorative wall hangings, even those that resemble the medieval tapestry panels. This craft style is also used for decorating garments to make them more unique.

Attaching the upper pieces to the fabric base can be done by sewing machine or by hand. Hand stitching makes use of some of the basic embroidery and sewing stitches. You can use a hem turned under with a blind stitch to attach the appliqued piece. Sometimes a satin stitch is used to cover the raw edges.

Applique instructions online are available at many different levels. If you are imaginative, you can find patterns to use from many different sources. Check children’s coloring books for simple outline images to use for patterns. You can also create your own. Use heavy paper or cardboard to make your patterns, allowing extra for hem allowance if you plan to hem.