bea2

In applique, what is the starch and press method? Do you still stitch the applique?
I hope you don't think this is a dumb question. I've only needle turned applique before.
Thanks..

Daffy Daphne

First, there are no dumb questions! In the starch and press I use, you use a q-tip to run a thin line of liquid starch (or sizing) around the edges of the turn-under allowance of your applique pieces, and then press them dry over either a heat resistant template or freezer paper shape. This gives you nice crisp edges to stitch down, with all curves smoothed out before you begin sewing. There is quite a bit of prep involved but I never have been able to get the hang of needle turn, so starch and press is the only way I enjoy doing applique.