Get Ready for Fused Appliqué
An iron and scissors are essential. Remaining items are helpful.
- Iron and ironing board
- Black permanent marker
- Fabric scissors; paper scissors
- Appliqué pressing sheet
- Tracing paper
- Template plastic
- Parchment paper (on a roll at the grocery store)
Read a few tips on page 4 before you begin.
Many brands and weights of fusible web are available. Use a lightweight product, especially if you plan to stitch patch edges down by hand or machine.
Dealing with Mirror Images
Fusible web is backed with paper, and we'll draw designs on the paper side. When shapes are cut out, that side will end up on the reverse side of our patches, making it a mirror image of what you originally traced. That's not important for symmetrical motifs, but it's critical for directional and asymmetrical patches.
If the concept sounds confusing, don't worry, you'll understand after you cut a few shapes -- just keep it in mind for now.
Transfer Patterns to the Fusible Web
- Download the floral PDF file and print the templates. Templates are mirror images -- no need to change them. Download the block layout guide.
Position each printed sheet under the fusible web, paper side up. Trace images onto paper side of web. (I've left space between images; if you use another pattern, be sure to leave about 1/2" between shapes.)
- Cut out each shape about 1/4" outward from its traced edge.
- Place the fusible web side of each patch against the reverse side of fabric and fuse. Be sure to follow manufacturer's instructions for heat settings.
- Cut out patches on the traced lines and remove the paper backing.
- Arrange (and center) patches on the 14-1/2" background square and fuse, again paying close attention to manufacturer's recommendations.
- Trim the block to 12-1/2" x 12-1/2", centering the appliqué in the square.
