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How to Do Decorative Stitches for Applique

Applique, or sewing shapes cut from one fabric on to another fabric, is a simple way to decorate any piece of fabric, such as a shirt, bag or pillow case. Applique can also used to cover up holes or stains, making it an essential skill for extending the life of children's clothes. While applique can be done with a basic straight stitch by hand or even by using iron-on fabric, using a decorative stitch adds visual appeal.

Things You'll Need

Fabric
Scissors
Pencil
Fusible interfacing or stabilizer
Iron
Pins
Sewing machine
Contrasting thread

Instructions

- 1
  Cut out the desired applique shape from a piece of fabric. Any fabric can be used for applique.
- 2
  Place the cut piece wrong-side-down on a piece of fusible interfacing or stabilizer, and turn over so that the paper backing of the interfacing is facing up. Iron the paper until the interfacing fuses with the applique piece. Peel off the paper and trim the interfacing around the applique.
- 3
  Pin the applique piece, interfacing side down, to the item being appliqued.
- 4
  Thread your sewing machine with a color of thread that contrasts with the applique and the background fabric to help your stitches stand out. Insert an open-toe presser foot on to your sewing machine.
- 5
  Set your sewing machine to an embroidery stitch with a pattern that crosses from left to right. A basic zig-zag stitch, satin stitch, blanket stitch, cross-stitch or buttonhole stitch will work.
- 6
  Stitch around the outline of the applique. Work slowly to be sure that you pivot and neatly turn around the shape of the applique. When you have stitched all the way around the applique, stitch two or three more times to secure your stitching.

Sewing