Raw edge applique is a technique that many professional sewing survives providers use to apply motifs. It is excellent because they have to apply the motif by cutting it to the same size they want. It is a great way to evaluate the sewing project. You don’t have to turn the corners under the back with a raw edge. It is because the edges are supposed to be “raw.” It is a great way to add customization and does not even fiddle with your pattern alteration. The trick to applying an applique is not that hard. In this article, we will talk about how you can use a motif with this simple technique.
Materials:
Following are some of the materials you would need when applying a motif to your clothes.
- Appliqué fabric
- A finished or nearly-finished garment
- Iron-on adhesive
- All-purpose polyester thread in a matching color (match the color of your motif, not your garment)
- Tweezers
- Sharp scissors
- Fine pins
How to Create an Applique motif?
Like any professional sewing services provider, you can create an applique by cutting a motif out of other fabrics. You can use a collage of prints to create an image for your applique or you can just stitch a ready-made patch to a base fabric.
Start by applying fusible webbing to the back of your appliqué fabric. Draw the shape or design on the paper backing and carefully cut it out with embroidery scissors. Remove the paper backing from the appliqué and merge it with the base fabric.
If you’re making letters or numbers, remember to draw them back to the front. This will ensure that they face rightward when you turn them over and stick them in place.
- Appliqués can be machine stitched in place quickly and easily. With a narrow zig-zag, satin stitch, or a blanket stitch, you can do that. Stitch a fabric sample with the same layers as the final product.
- Stitch with the left side of the needle in the appliqué. This will cover the motifs’ edges.
- Sew slowly to ensure smooth edges and control the direction. Stop with the needle down in the right-hand position when working around curves or corners. This will keep it in the main fabric for outward curves. Before continuing, lift the presser foot to pivot the fabric slightly. Stop with the needle in the appliqué, raise the presser foot, pivot, and continue as before for inside curves.
Common Issues Faced:
When it comes to applique, skipped stitches are a common issue. A sticky needle most commonly causes them. The web glue can leave a residue on the hand as it pierces through the bond if it isn’t fully set. That’s why turn off the machine between stitches and wipe the needle gently with a cotton pad soaked in nail varnish remover. You can even use a soaped cloth if you want. Both are sufficient.
Additional Tips for better application:
1. Most professional sewing services providers use bobbin fill thread for bobbins. This thread is fine, shiny, and lightweight. It is a strong polyester thread and comes in large cones. Due to how fine it is, you can fit heaps on the bobbin. So Bobbin changes will be less frequent.
2. Use a Janome Blue tip needle. This will help you not skip stitches. However, if you can not find it, a universal 70 or 80 hands will also work.
3. Use a clear, open-toe foot to see what you’re doing.
4. Set the zig-zag stitches width around 3.
5. You can also play around with your machine to see what stitch length works best for you. Start at 0.5 and work backward until the stitches are close together but not so close that they bunch up and don’t move freely under the foot. First, practice on some scraps.
