What a shame! My LQS recommended some fusible that is so flexible you can't tell it's there. She had two pieces of fabric fused together to demonstrate, and I swear you would think it was just double-faced fabric it was so soft. Good luck, and try some of the suggested needles.

I have had great luck with a soft fusible but it comes in sheets & I was trying to save $$ by buying stuff by the yard!
Thanks for the tips about needles & pliers.

Hmm, the fusible I mentioned does come by the yard. I just looked at mine. Unfortunately it doesn't have any manufacturing info on the roll I have. I'll have to ask my LQS what it is.

BTW, your iris' are gorgeous!!!

What is the brand of fusible you purchased? If it's Wonder Under - it's OK for machine sewing but impossible to hand stitch through. Most of the big name appliquers use Steam-A-Seam 2 Light - it's really nice. I found a wonderful fusible last year - think it's called Shades. Stacy Michell (daughter of Marti the template lady!) makes this and it is wonderful - cannot feel it at all. Heat and Bond Light is OK - haven't tried to hand stitch through it though.

Sandy in Mooresville, NC

beautiful blocks!

i didnt know they had special needles for that

Thanks all for your input. I am going to continue the hand embroidery because it looks so good and my machine is a pretty simple one. I will investigate different needles, find my pliers, and just do a little at a time. Best, Dotty