Applique Over Bulky Seams...and More Incredible Machine Embroidery

Buzzin' Around designed by Mary Sorenson

I finished the embroidery on my Mary Sorensen class project called Buzzin' Around; Advanced Hand Appliqué Techniques.  It was so much fun to do and it's another project that just makes me smile.  To see how I stitched the shimmery wings click HERE. I also want to share with you another very easy technique that really gives your applique a polished look and takes it to the next level. 




If you take a closer look at the cone flowers you will notice that the black and red polka dot fabric is covering lots of seam allowances. If I had just appliqued the fabric directly over the seams the polka dot fabric would has not looked nice and flat and rounded. Instead, I lined the shape with a low loft cotton batting.  

Bulky Seams

First, I pinned the cotton batting in place and then I basted from the back using the marked line as my guide.  Notice that I basted just inside the pencil line. 

I then trimmed the batting right up to the stitched line. 

I then pinned and basted the black polka dot fabric and appliqued as usual.  Notice that this time I basted directly on the pencil line.

And here is more unbelievable treadle machine embroidery....click HERE to read about the origins of these samples.

Until next time...
Best stitches,
Mercy in Miami