emt2004

What is the best sewing foot to use for applique? I've been told a plastic open toe, was hoping to get some feedback. I am doing satin stitch, also should I use some kind of stabilizer? Thank you for your help. Michele

ManiacQuilter2

I have a Bernina 1530 and I use the #23 foot. It is clear plastic without an opening in the front but that is all they made back in the 90s. I have had no problems with my stitches mostly buttonhole for applique.

LivelyLady

You will want to use the plastic open toe applique foot so you can see the edge of the applique piece. I use coffee filters for my stabilizer as it only costs $1 for a pkg at the $ tree, it's acid free, and tears away easily.

Tartan

You do need a foot that you can see the edge of the appliqué with. It can be an open toe foot or a clear foot. Some kind of stabilizer on the back will prevent "tunneling" that is when the satin stitching pulls up the background fabric causing ripples. A coffee filter will work if you don't have a tear away stabilizer. On a light background, you may have to trim away the filter after the satin stitching?

Treasureit

I agree with the feet...I use coffee filters also...they tear away easily and the little that is under the stitching never seems to be a problem after washing.

michelleoc

I use an open toe foot (which of course didn't come with the machine) that does not have any plastic "guides" in the center. The feet with the guides are a problem. When you try to look at where your needle is going in, the plastic distorts it, so half the time you aren't actually in the right place.

MadQuilter

I use the plastic open-toe foot for my satin and blanket stitch applique. Recently, I learned about Ricky Tims interfacing that you can leave in. Really like to work with it. However, I do have some tear-away interfacing as well. It does make a difference as the thickness between the layers is different and without interfacing, the applique can easily get puckered.