Master the Art of Applique: A Step-by-Step Guide to Machine Sewing

Whether you’re a seasoned seamstress or a beginner looking to add some personal flair to your clothing, learning how to sew on an applique with a machine is a valuable skill to have. Appliques are decorative pieces of fabric that can be easily attached to garments, bags, and home decor items to add a unique touch and style. While hand-sewing an applique may seem like the traditional and more time-consuming method, using a sewing machine can yield equally beautiful and professional results in a fraction of the time. In this article, we will guide you through the simple steps of sewing on an applique with a machine, allowing you to add your personal touch to your favorite pieces effortlessly.

What is an Applique?

An applique is a decorative and functional sewing technique that involves attaching a piece of fabric or design onto a larger fabric surface. This can be used to add embellishments, patches, or even to cover up holes or stains on clothing or other textile items.

Appliques are often made from contrasting fabrics or materials, such as leather, lace, or felt, which create a striking visual effect when attached to the main fabric. They can range from simple designs like shapes and letters to more complex designs like flowers, animals, or characters.

Appliques can be sewn onto fabrics by hand-stitching or using a sewing machine. The latter method is the most popular and efficient way of attaching appliques, especially when dealing with large volumes.

The Benefits of Sewing on Appliques with a Machine

While hand-stitching appliques can be a fun and creative activity, using a sewing machine has several advantages that make it the preferred method for many sewers.

Firstly, using a machine allows for faster application of appliques. With the right technique and tools, sewing on an applique with a machine can take just a few minutes. This is particularly beneficial when working on large projects like costumes or quilts that require multiple appliques.

In addition to speed, using a sewing machine also results in more precise and uniform stitches. This is especially useful when working on intricate designs where every stitch needs to be in place for the final outcome to look neat and professional.

Another benefit of using a machine for sewing on appliques is its ability to handle different types of fabrics. Some materials may be too thick or stiff for hand-stitching but can easily be sewn with a machine. This opens up possibilities for using various materials in your applique designs.

Finally, sewing machines offer more versatility in terms of stitch options compared to hand-stitching. This enables you to experiment with different decorative stitches to add more interest and creativity to your appliques.

What You Will Need

To sew on an applique with a machine, you will need the following items:

Sewing machine
Scissors
Fabric for base material and applique
Interfacing (optional)
Fusible web (optional)
Pins or fabric clips
Thread in matching or contrasting color
Sewing machine needle suitable for the fabric type

Step-by-Step Guide to Sewing on an Applique with a Machine

Now that you have gathered all the necessary materials, it’s time to start sewing on your applique. Follow these steps for a successful and professional-looking result.

Step 1: Prepare Your Fabric Pieces

Before you can start sewing, you need to prepare both your base fabric and the applique fabric. If using fusible web, cut out a piece larger than your applique design and fuse it according to the manufacturer’s instructions onto the back side of the fabric you want to use for the design.

If using interfacing, cut out a piece of appropriate size and iron it onto the back side of your base fabric. This will provide extra support and stability for your stitches.

Step 2: Draw or Cut Out Your Applique Design

Next, use a pencil or chalk to draw or trace your desired design onto your prepared applique material. If using ready-made designs, cut them out neatly with scissors.

To ensure smooth edges, use pinking shears or straight-edged scissors with zigzag blades. This will help prevent fraying and give your applique a clean and professional finish.

Step 3: Position and Secure the Applique

Using fabric clips or pins, place your applique onto the base fabric in its desired position. Make sure to leave enough fabric around the edges for seam allowance if you plan on sewing the applique onto another piece of fabric later.

Step 4: Set Up Your Sewing Machine

Load your machine with a needle suitable for your chosen fabric, and thread it with matching or contrasting thread. Also, adjust your stitch length and width according to the type of stitch you want to use for attaching the applique.

Step 5: Prepare for Stitching

Before starting to sew, it is important to prepare the machine for stitching onto multiple layers of fabric. This can be done by adjusting the pressure on the presser foot. If necessary, also adjust the tension of your thread.

It is recommended to test out your chosen stitch on some scrap fabric before sewing on the actual project.

Step 6: Sew On The Applique

Using your chosen stitch, carefully sew around the edges of your applique using a slow and steady pace. Sew

What is an Applique and Why Use a Machine?

An applique is an embroidery technique where fabric is attached onto a larger piece of fabric to create a decorative design. This adds dimension, texture, and interest to the project. While appliques can be sewn on by hand, using a sewing machine can save time and give more precise results. Plus, with the wide variety of stitches and designs available on many machines, you can get creative with your appliques!

Materials Needed for Machine Applique

In order to sew on an applique using a machine, you will need a few key materials. First and foremost, the most important element is the fabric for your applique. Choose a lightweight fabric to avoid bulkiness and make it easier to sew onto your project. You will also need fusible webbing or adhesive spray to temporarily attach the applique to your project before stitching. It’s important to use thread that matches your applique fabric as closely as possible – or even consider using invisible thread. And don’t forget to have sharp scissors or a rotary cutter on hand for cutting out your applique shape.

Preparing Your Applique Fabric

Before you start sewing, it’s essential to prep your applique fabric properly for best results. The first step is to trace or print out the shape you want for your applique onto paper – this will be used as a template. Then place the template over the wrong side of the fabric and trace around it with a disappearing ink pen or chalk. Another option is to pin the template directly onto your fabric and cut around it.

Next, turn the shape over onto its right side so that it’s facing up – this way when you attach it onto your project, there won’t be any lines showing from tracing or pins. Apply fusible webbing following the manufacturer’s instructions to the wrong side of the fabric. This will make your shape easier to handle and prevent fraying.

Attaching the Applique to Your Project

Now it’s time to attach the applique onto your project. Begin by placing your project fabric right side up on your sewing table. Then carefully peel off the paper backing from the applique and position it where you want it on your project. Use pins or an adhesive spray to temporarily hold it in place. Once satisfied with the placement, use an iron (following fusible webbing instructions) to secure the applique onto your project.

Stitching On Your Applique

With your applique now securely attached, it’s time to stitch around the edges to fully finish it off. You have a few options for stitches depending on the look you’re going for and what stitches are available on your machine.

– A straight stitch is perfect for a clean, simple edge around your applique.
– Zigzag and satin stitches add a decorative touch with their varying widths.
– If you have a fancy machine, you can experiment with different embroidery stitches for a unique finish.

To begin stitching, select your preferred stitch and carefully guide the edge of your presser foot along the edge of the applique while sewing. Go slowly around curves or tight corners to maintain precision. When you reach the starting point, overlap a few stitches before stopping to prevent unraveling.

Troubleshooting Tips

Even if you’ve followed all the steps correctly, sometimes things don’t go quite as planned when sewing on an applique with a machine. Here are some common issues and tips for how to fix them:

– Thread tension too tight: This can cause puckering around the edge of your applique or even breakage of delicate fabrics. Try loosening tension slightly.
– Needle breaking: Using a thicker or different type of needle can help prevent breakage, as well as making sure it’s inserted correctly.
– Stitches skipping: If you notice gaps in your stitching, check for a dull needle and replace if necessary. Also, make sure the fabric is moving smoothly while stitching to avoid skipped stitches.

Finishing Touches

Once you’ve stitched around your applique and are satisfied with the result, remove any remaining pins or tape. If using fusible webbing, make sure to go back and iron over the applique once more to fully secure it. To give your project a professional touch, trim any loose threads and give it a final press with an iron.

With these tips and techniques, sewing on an applique with a machine is a fun and creative way to add interest to your projects. Experiment with different shapes, fabrics, and stitches to see what unique designs you can come up with! Remember to always take your time and practice for best results. Happy sewing!

Q: What is an applique and why would I need to sew it on with a machine?
A: An applique is a decorative piece of fabric that is sewn onto another piece of fabric. It is typically used to add a unique design or embellishment to clothing, home decor, or accessories. Sewing an applique with a machine ensures a secure attachment and professional finish.

Q: What type of sewing machine do I need to sew on an applique?
A: Any basic or computerized sewing machine can be used to sew on an applique. However, it is recommended to use a sewing machine with adjustable stitch lengths and widths for more precise sewing.

Q: How do I prepare the fabric and applique before sewing?
A: To ensure smooth stitching, make sure your fabric and applique are clean and ironed. If using fusible appliques, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for fusing the pieces onto the fabric.

Q: What type of thread should I use when sewing on an applique?
A: For best results, use all-purpose polyester or cotton thread in a color that matches your fabric or contrast for a decorative effect. Avoid using thick or heavy threads as they can cause tension issues on your machine.

Q: Can I use a regular sewing needle when sewing on an applique?
A: Yes, you can use a regular universal needle (size 80/12) for most fabrics. However, if you are working with thicker fabrics or multiple layers, it is better to use a needle designed specifically for heavy-duty projects.

Q: Should I finish the edges of my applique before attaching it?
A: It is not necessary to overlock or zig-zag stitch the raw edges of your applique before attaching it. The stitching around the edge of the applique will secure the raw edges and prevent fraying. However, if you prefer a neater finish, you can finish the edges before sewing.

In conclusion, learning how to sew on an applique with a machine is a valuable skill for anyone interested in crafting and sewing. By following the steps outlined above, one can easily create beautiful and professional-looking applique designs on various fabrics using a sewing machine.

First, it is important to gather the necessary materials and prepare the fabric before beginning the sewing process. This not only ensures a smoother sewing experience but also helps achieve precise and clean results.

Next, understanding the different types of appliques and their appropriate sewing techniques is vital in achieving desired outcomes. Whether it’s a raw edge or turned-edge applique, using the correct stitch length and width can make a significant difference in the finished product.

Additionally, mastering the proper techniques for handling corners, curves, and intricate designs can greatly elevate the overall appearance of an applique. Practice makes perfect in this aspect, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different designs and techniques.

Moreover, maintaining some basic machine skills such as adjusting tension settings, changing needles, and cleaning regularly all contribute to producing high-quality appliques. These simple yet crucial steps ensure that your sewing machine is functioning properly for optimal results.

In summary, sewing on an applique with a machine requires patience, practice, and attention to detail. However, once you

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.