I chose the optional layout and turned the petals inward to form a circle (see pattern download for both options). I used the flip and fuse applique method that we used on block SEVEN. CLICK HERE to visit the blog post on block 7, if you want to read a bit about this method of the applique.
Also, today’s pattern download from MODA has the steps shown for flip and fuse applique for you.
I used a machine blanket stitch to sew down my applique pieces on this Tropicana block (does anyone else want a glass of orange juice right now?) ☺
I like the look of the blanket stitch, you can use it too if you have one on your machine. You should use whichever stitch ( or hand applique) that you like best, You can even use a straight stitch around the edge , it does not have to be a decorative stitch. Once your block is quilted the applique stitch you use will probably be less prominent
A LITTLE BIT ABOUT BLANKET STITCH MACHINE APPLIQUE
If your machine has this stitch, it's a fabulous way to finish your applique edges with a pretty, traditional look. This works very well on raw edges that have been fused, or turned under edges, including the interfacing (flip and fuse) method that we used.
Thread? Needle size? The blanket stitch method is not fussy at all. You can use any weight thread and a standard size machine needle. Contrast or matching thread? It is a matter of personal preference.
I usually like to use a thread color that matches or compliments the fabric color. When I am feeling confident , I might choose a high contrast , because the blanket stitch is so pretty to me. and I want to see it. Here on my pink sampler , i wanted it to blend in, mostly. I used Aurifil 50 wt. Pale Pink here. It looks like a heavier thread. I chose a machine stitch that doubles back and forth on each ‘leg’ of the stitch so it looks like a heavier thread. Trying to mimic hand embroidery here, but this looks mighty neat and tidy compared to how my hand embroidery stitches might have looked here.
If you have been piecing with a quarter inch foot , don’t forget to change to an applique foot before you switch to a blanket stitch, or you will bend or break your needle. Oops
The closer I look at the Grunge colors the pretty they are.
I like to use a light weight stabilizer like FRENCH FUSE on the back of my block before I do applique stitching. It gives the stitches something to “bite” into and they nestle in so nicely. i like it because you can iron it on to the back of your block. You don’t have to pin or baste it in place. AND it is so light weight, when you are done blanket stitching, you can leave it in place, unlike the tear away type of stabilizers.
I used the 6” size to trace with. The Orange Peel Set of Impressions Quilting Templates features the classic orange peel applique shape. Heat resistant templates are designed to fit on 3", 4", 5" and 6" finished size squares. Trace the template shape onto fabric and cut out with scissors. Available HERE in our online shop, while quantities last.
Once your applique block is quilted the applique stitch is less visible.
Free patterns are courtesy of the kind folks at Moda Fabrics. We’ll be back tomorrow with another FREE pattern for your Stitch Pink sampler quilt.
Thank you for reading our blog. Until we blog again , be sure to take time out and Enjoy the Sew!®
