I love applique on quilts, but I don’t love hand stitching. Here I describe three methods for preparing and machine applique that mimic the appearance of hand sewing: Raw Edge Applique, Turned Edge Applique, and Freezer-paper Applique. I use all three methods depending on the circumstances, sometimes all three in the same quilt. Quilt patterns generally come with applique templates with no seam allowances and are usually traced or printed.
Download the complete Illustrated Guide to Invisible Machine Applique and add it to your quilting resources library. My patterns, Marvelous Monkeys and Welcoming Committee are great opportunities to use your machine applique skills.
Raw Edge Applique
This is the easiest and fastest method of machine applique. The result has a more casual, less refined appearance than either Turned Edge or Freezer-paper Applique. To prevent raveling of the raw edges, the applique pieces are stitched using a small zigzag stitch with either matching or invisible thread. This method requires a two-sided fusible web, which remains in the work and can make the project slightly stiffer than hand applique but provides a stabilized edge for machine stitching. I use this method for an informal look or for very small pieces where turned seam allowances are not practical. Raw Edge Applique produces beautiful results with Batik fabrics, which are tightly woven and do not ravel much.
Turned Edge Applique
This method creates a refined, more formal looking finished edge. The applique pieces are stitched with a small blind hem stitch using either matching or invisible thread, producing a result that looks very close to hand stitched applique. This method requires a special one-sided fusible stabilizer that partially dissolves and softens up after the project is washed and creates a stabilized edge for machine stitching. The fusible provides a firm edge over which the narrow seam allowance is turned and then fixed with a glue pen, which makes creating smooth curves very easy. This is my favorite machine applique method for intricate applique shapes such as flowers and leaves.
Freezer-paper Applique
This method produces a result similar to that of Turned Edge Applique, with a refined, finished edge. Narrow seam allowances are turned over freezer paper shapes and ironed, using starch to sharpen the crease, and to create stabilized edges for machine stitching. Because no fusible remains in the applique pieces, this method results in less bulk and remains pliable. I like to use this machine applique method for large applique pieces to avoid bulk and conserve my fusible materials. This method is not as easy as Turned Edge Applique for intricate shapes. Freezer-paper Applique uses inexpensive materials that are easy to find.