To finish the car blocks that we started on Day 5,
I used the tiny blind hem stitch.
This is what it looked like after I completed the stitching.
Since the freezer paper needs to be removed,
I carefully cut slits behind each of the areas with a template inside.
Notice there are 2 layers of freezer paper in some areas. This is the only reason this is a bit tricky.
Please use patience.
It’s not hard, but you need to be gentle so you don’t tear out stitches & ruin all of your nice work!
Since there are multiple layers I got the block generously wet.
Typically a little bit of water will do,
but I want the water to go through both layers of fabric & freezer paper.
Pulling on two opposite sides of the applique will pop the freezer paper out of the stitching so you can reach in and pull out the paper.
I removed the top layer of paper from behind the windows then with tiny scissors, I cut away the background fabric inside the stitching leaving about 1/4″ seam allowance.
Next I cut slits in the car (black) fabric.
I could then see the paper and carefully pull it out.
Next I did the same thing behind the wheels.
I think the rest of the paper removal is self explanatory.
I used the point of these scissors to remove the paper in the tiny tree trunk.
I pressed wet block flat with my fingers just to be sure it dries as flat as possible, not distorted.
The block is now under the ceiling fan drying!
Don’t try to iron it to dry it, you’ll distort the block.
Once it’s dry I will trim up my wicked looking seam allowances,
spray it with Mary Ellen’s Best Press & press it, then it will look like new! (I hope lol)
I’m not sure why I find this so exciting, but I do.
I can’t wait to see it finished!
That’s #1 of 3…
Let me know if you have any questions about this process.
Assemble the parts of the car by gluing the overlapping pieces together using the template that I’ve provided you.
NOTE, Don’t glue the car to the paper template sheet!
Position the bottom edge of the car 1″ above the bottom of the
6 1/2″ x 6 1/2″ square of background fabric.
Glue only the seam allowance of the perimeter to the background square.
I like to use a 6 1/2″ ruler to press the entire piece onto the background to help the edges get glued tight.
This is important & will make the appliqué portion a snap!
Use your favorite appliqué stitch to stitch the car & tree to the background.
I will be using the tiny blind hem stitch that I love to use because it resembles hand stitching.
The thread colors should match the fabrics that are being stitched down not the background fabric.
You can also use decorative stitches.
If you’re going to use this freezer paper appliqué process I have another post that will show you how to remove all of the freezer paper templates after your block is stitched.
Quilting my way through life! 