Month: November 2020

If freezer paper appliqué scares you,

you should know that you’re not alone!

I used to be one of those people,

but the experience of making the centers of little Dresden plates

has changed all of that for me.

I now – LOVE – freezer paper appliqué.

& I think I’ve gotten pretty good at it.

Practice is the only real solution to this obstacle.

Practice easy techniques using the best tools available.

I now find it to be very easy & I love the challenge &

the self satisfaction that comes with each completed project.

That’s the best advice that I can offer you,

that & show you those easy techniques.

Sit back & view these images & short videos & also

go to my Instagram for more short videos that I made just for you!

First use the Apliquick bars to cover the freezer paper shapes. It’s a little different for the round shapes vs. a straight edge & point. You can see the differences in these 2 vidoes.

After the appliqué shapes are made

glue them onto the background fabric.

Stitch them with the tiny blind hem stitch that I use,

or use your favorite appliqué stitch by machine or by hand.

The threads should match the appliqué shape being stitched down,

not the background fabric.

Next you’ll need to CAREFULLY cut slits behind each shape

so the freezer paper templates can be removed.

Use sharp serrated scissors for best results.

With a white cloth, generously wet the shapes.

It’s only necessary to wet the applique shapes.

No need to get the whole block wet.

Let the piece sit for a few minutes

until the glue has a chance to release the paper.

A gentle pull on opposite sides of each shape

will release the paper from the stitches.

If the paper doesn’t easily release,

it’s probably not wet enough.

I’m loving Jen Kingwell’s newest line,

Winkipop by Moda.

I hope that I’m changing your mind about trying freezer paper applique.

It truly is worth the effort!

Just Keep Sewing…

Susan