Hand Applique Circle Techniques
I have not quite got the hang of making videos that will look good on different platforms. This video aspect looked fine on Instagram but does no suit You Tube but hopefully you get the idea! Click on the full screen icon in the bottom right to enlarge the video.
Needleturn Applique
The first video shows how I needleturn a circle. There are other hand applique methods for circles but I think this is the simplest method requiring minimal tools.
I have a hard time using just my needle to turn the fabric under and often use my fingers to do the turning. Not very elegant but it works! You may like to finger press the fold line prior to appliqueing to make the applique process easier.
Tools that I use
1a. Karen kay Buckley Perfect Circles for tracing circles or you can make your own
1b. A sandpaper board (not shown) for tracing the circle template onto fabric.
2. Scissors
3. Milliners or straw needle - they are long and thin and glide through fabric more easily. I'm using Jeana Kimball's Straw needle in size 11.
4. Thread - I'm using Aurifil thread 50wt. There is 80wt which is thinner but I prefer to use a slightly heavier weight. Match your thread colour to the focus fabric rather than the background.
5. Clover applique pins to hold down the applique. These are short so tend not to poke you as you sew.
Prepared edge applique circle
Tools and tips
1. Sandpaper board for tracing. This grips the fabric and gives more definition to the pencil line.
2. Karen Kay Buckley Perfect Circles, in the larger circles pack. There are also paper templates available.
3. Thread and needle. I like milliner or straw needles for this as they glide through the fabric.
4. The smaller your stitches, the smoother your circle.
5. Spray starch during the pressing stage. It helps hold the shape of the circle.
6. Iron on medium heat so as not to damage the template.
7. Hand applique as shown in the previous video but this time your edge has already been turned.
Paper pieces in different size circles are widely available from quilt stores or online.
You may also like to read about
Handquilting with perle 8 thread