Bet you're wondering what freemotion applique is.
It's a process of using the machine's zigzag stitch along with it's darning or freemotion foot to stitch down the edges of fused appliques.
So, how is this different than any zigzag to secure appliques? This technique doesn't involve stopping with the needle in place, and rotating the fabric. It's all stitched moving the fabric side to side or up and down, just like freemotion quilting.
Bet you're wondering why. For me, the quicker I can get applique stitching done, the better. No stopping to turn the fabric shaves off some precious time.
Now I know this technique is not for everyone, as it does take a bit of control to move the fabric to catch the zigzag. But with practice, it moves along fairly quickly. And that's a big plus in my book!
Go ahead and watch this little video, Freemotion Applique, that I have of the process.
Note that when I'm on a more horizontal plane, the stitches zigzag at an angle, like this,
as seen on this tree, in both white and green thread.
And when going around curves, the angle switches direction.
Here it is on the gnome's nose.
Looks pretty good, right? For me, I love this technique for speeding up my applique stitching. Not sure if the quilt police would though!
As far as my gnome project, it will be here Monday - stitching, quilting, and pattern writing have taken longer than expected.
Happy Quilting!
My Favorite Patterns
"the gnome's nose" Say that 3 times fast! Great idea to free motion the pieces. I make mostly small quilts and have gotten pretty good with the free motion so I'll try this soon! Thanks.
ReplyDeleteInteresting technique. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI might even try more putting some appliqué on my quilts with this method! Looks great! And who do I know that dares to say what you can and cannot do this. When people say they don’t like something, as in one “friend” said, “ That has to be one ugly fabric”. I responded with “Its my quilt, not yours”. I loved the bright K F fabric and obviously she had no taste. I on,y make quilts that are to be loved and used and used and washed. Not hung and stored in a drawer in a museum...
ReplyDeleteI am going to keep this in mind. Yours looks perfect, I am afraid mine would be a hot mess.
ReplyDelete