Stitch and Flip Applique

Have you tried applique? Intimidated? Not sure how to turn raw edges under?

This year, I am committed to try new techniques and fabrics. Applique is a new technique to me, but found it's not something to fear! Here are the few applique methods I've used (and actually have come to love- you can too!).

1). Felt applique: This is the easiest applique I've ever done, and I'm so glad I tried this technique first. Felt doesn't ravel, and it holds it's place without slipping pretty well. A blanket stitch is an easy way to applique the felt pieces. I found that a small felt project is great for a car traveling craft. 

2). Reverse applique: If you've seen my Peekaboo Pumpkin Pillow or Peekaboo Bunny Pillow, then you've seen reverse applique. It's such an easy process but gives a nice "wow" factor. This process involves having two layers of fabric, both facing right side up. They are quilted together (maybe stitches in rows), and then the top layer is carefully cut in a slit to reveal the fabric below. You can stitch the raw edges down, but I like the organic fray that occurs over time. 

(example of reverse applique on the Peekaboo Bunny Pillow)

3). Stitch and Flip applique: This is the newest applique technique I've tried. Using a template, I trace a shape on the wrong side of a piece of fabric. Layer two pieces of fabric RST, and sew all the way around the shape. 

 Then cut out the shape 1/4" away from the seam. Cut small snips into curves but not into the stitches. Pinch one layer of fabric away from the other layer. Cut a small snip into the middle of the fabric about 1" wide. 

Here's where the term "stitch and flip" comes into play. You've already "stitched," now it's time to "flip." Insert a small pair of scissors into the slit and push to an edge or corner. On the outside of the fabric, press a finger against the fabric/scissor tip. Push the scissor tip and fabric back out through the slit. Try to keep your scissors against the fabric as long as possible so you can get the inside of the fabric flipped out. Turn the entire shape right side out.

Use your scissors to gently press out the seams and finger press. Use an iron to flatten your shape. I iron with the cut slit side up so I can make sure I press the slit down and closed as best as possible. I like this technique because there are no raw edges, and there's extra definition to the applique shape since there's a little "poof" to it. 

Pin your shapes onto the fabric you want to sew it to. In my example, I am going to sew my applique pieces onto a minky Easter basket. A free pattern is coming your way in the next couple of weeks! I used a blanket stitch and size 8 perle cotton thread to attach my applique pieces. 

There are other applique techniques such as raw edge applique, fused applique, and machine applique that I haven't attempted yet. What applique techniques do you recommend? I'd love to hear from you in the comments!