retrogirl02

It depends what type of applique you are interested in trying. I tried several types before deciding what worked best for me...a combination of needle turn & freezer paper.

If you have time to practice, I'd suggest checking through the applique threads and tutorials here and then narrowing your supplies list based on the methods you feel most comfortable with.

Even people who use the same techniques find different products work best for their individual stitching.

I just tried 2 types of needles that other quilters rave about and didn't like either. Please let me know if I can be of assistance.

Happy Stitching,
Heather

janedee

I do all needleturn applique by hand don't glue or fuse it down use tiny aplique pins to hold the piece in place - find the quilt is not so stiff that way, I only fuse it if its a wall hanging - oh and I use betweens and silk thread

ckcowl

fusables are usually used for raw-edge machine applique- it is difficult to push a needle through by hand.
needle turn applique is a hand applique technique- freezer paper is often used for templates to cut your applique pieces.
visit the Piece of Cake web site- they offer alot of free content and also books and videos on learning to hand applique.

retrogirl02

Good point, ckcowl. If your local library doesn't have a copy, it is well worth the investment in the Piece O' Cake DVD when getting started.

Halfsquare

I do not do any fusing. Really, fusing make the quilt stiff. Hand applique looks like a more traditional quilt.
I use the freezer paper method. I also use straw needles but the thread I use is 60 wt cotton thread by tre stelle cucirini. I have used many threads and this is, to me, the strongest and finest. So far I have only been able to find this thread at suespargo.com. It is Italian.
You get faster at it as you go. Just give yourself some time and practice, settle down in your chair with a book on CD or mp3, and go to town. Hours go by in peace and serenity.

ploverwi2

I do the raw edge applique and love it. It is the easiest for me. You just have to try different kinds, and soon you will find what suits you the best.

Halfsquare

Very cool. Gorgeous.

ploverwi2

I never have problems pushing a needle through, while I am doing the hand applique. I do use a very light fusible though. I have been making my applique things for many years now. I like the light Wonder Under and Heat n Bond, the light one.