Hand Look Applique by Machine
Applique is a fun, fast and easy way to jazz up a garment especially if it’s hand look applique by machine. I’ve been getting ads on my computer showing summer tops in very simple shapes with colourful applique and simple designs on them. They inspire me so much that I have a file folder full of screen shots of my favourites! I wanted to drop everything and sew up my own version. But, first, I had to finish a commitment of 7 samples for Jalie. They’re finished! NOW I can indulge in creativity.
First, a pattern!
I “hacked” a loose fitting dolman sleeved blouse by omitting the collar, widening the neckline, and decided to use home-made bias to finish it. The pattern hasn’t been published yet, so it’s still a secret. Soon.
Next, fabric.
I “found” a piece of linen-look in my stash. It’s blue. My favourite colour! And there was enough of it. Sew far sew good.
Now, an applique design.
I browsed through Electric Quilt (EQ) for ideas, then ended up drawing a simple flower, leaves and a flower bud. After drawing the shapes onto Heat ‘n Bond Lite, I found the perfect print for those (again in my stash). Black fabric for the leaves and the stems, then black snaps to close the front. I reserved a piece large enough to make bias binding for the neck edge. (It’s inside)
This is the menu of applique stitches built into the HusqvarnaViking Epic 2. I chose stitch #4, my favourite applique stitch and I’ve added some notations to explain my settings.
To keep my stitching straight I use a clear open toe foot.
Here’s a close-up view of my stitches. Note: my stems are simply 1/2 inch wide bias strips. I found them a bit too wide and suggest 3/8 inch instead.
My final designer touch was to use durable snaps as the closure, and I grouped them in 3’s.
I’ll post again with more specific details about this pattern in a month or so. It hasn’t been published yet, which is why I’m being secretive. If you like the idea of modifying a pattern you love, here’s a post to inspire you. Click here.
