You don't have to be an expert to try this applique! Jean Wells, quilt shop owner and author of
Buttonhole Stitch Applique, joins host Alex Anderson to show just how simple this quilt can be. Even though the basic instructions are given for this type of quilt, a quilter can definitely make it their own by incorporating their ideas. For instance, instead of using a cabin in the theme block, how about a tepee?
Fabric selection
When selecting fabrics, have a mood or theme in mind. Think in terms of the amount of color that will show. Background fabrics need to contrast with the appliqued fabrics. A light-to-dark or dark-to-light fabric works best. Using two medium-colored fabrics will actually cancel each other out. Medium- and small-scale prints work best, whereas large-scale prints are best to avoid. Don't pass up fabrics with printed motifs (figure A). These fabrics will save time tracing pattern pieces.
Spread around the color--the more intense fabric colors need to be spread around so the eye does not land on just one particular spot of the quilt design.
If all of the fabrics introduced in the quilt are reflected in the border surrounding the theme block (in this case stars and log cabin blocks) (figure B), the fabrics can begin to be repeated in the rest of the quilt. This rule of thumb works consistently when constructing this particular type of quilt.
Materials:
fabric
embroidery floss
embroidery needle (size 8)
paper-backed, soluble fusible webbing
Steps:
Where to begin
This quilt might be a bit overwhelming. That's why it's best to begin with the center block or the theme block (figure C). It's best to work out decisions regarding fabric colors (or possible problems) in the center block.
Bonding the fabric
- Selecting a fusible webbing. Look for a fusible with a paper-backed adhesive. It must be soluble in order for the needle to go through the fusible webbing and fabric. Always read the manufacturer's instruction regarding use of steam and how long to apply the heat. It's interesting to not that most fusible webbings are washable.
- On the paper side of the webbing, use a pencil to trace the desired pattern shape (figure D). Pattern ideas may be found in magazines, advertisements, or children 's coloring books. The use of a copy machine will either enlarge or reduce an image to be used for a pattern.
- With the paper side up, press the fusible pattern shape to the wrong side of the fabric. When pressing the fusible, use an up-and-down motion rather than a sliding across motion. Sliding across the fusible may result in the adhesive getting onto the iron.
- Here's a time saving tip--leave a little bit of the fusible around the pattern shape. Once the fusible is pressed to the fabric, go back and make a clean cut around the shape. This way only one cut is made around the pattern (figure E).
- To peel the paper from the fusible, crinkle the cut fabric a little bit to loosen the paper. Once a tear has been created, the paper comes off with ease, exposing the adhesive on the wrong side of the applique. Center the applique on the background piece. Make sure it's placed in the exact spot, because once it's on, it's on for good. Again, press in an up-and-down motion. Appliques may be layered up to three layers.
Floss color selection
Think about the end result. A more formal quilt might be stitched using just one color or black floss. A whimsical quilt might be stitched using a number of colored floss. Regarding the whimsical quilt, take clues from the quilt colors and then choose the colors of floss. Choose colors that are a step up in intensity.
Buttonhole stitch
- Thread an embroidery needle (size 8 is recommended) with six strands of embroidery floss, not more than 18 inches in length.
- Knot the floss and start by coming up beside the applique, through the background, from the backside. Use your thumb to hold the thread in place (figure F) and make a stitch through the applique to the edge of the fabric (figure G). Holding the thread with your thumb, the thread will automatically be under the needle.
- Pull the stitch and remember that tension is very important. Pull the floss tight enough that the floss comes out straight (figure H).
- If the applique pattern has a point, take a stitch right at the point and end it as if there were no more floss. At the point, take the stitch to the back of the piece. This will secure the thread.
- Bring the needle right up to the last ending point and continue stitching (figure I). If the applique pattern has an inside point, take a stitch to the point, then turn it and take another stitch from the other side to create a "V" (figure J). This creates consistency in the stitches.
Appliqued Log Cabin blocks
It couldn't be simpler--these log cabins are fused to a black background for high contrast (figure K) and buttonhole stitched in black floss (figure L).
Sub-borders and borders
When considering the sub-borders and borders, look at the quilt and let it make the decision for you. The sub-border is considered to be the mat in a picture frame. Because it will be a small strip of fabric, consider a more intense or brighter color to frame the theme block. Also, consider what is being used for the outside border because there does need to be contrast between the sub-border and border (figure M).
Resources Buttonhole Stitch Applique
by Jean Wells (ISBN: 0914881914)
This title is out of print. Consult local libraries, used book stores or click
here for Amazon.com's book search.
Jennifer Sampou Fabric
Jennifer Sampou designed fabrics are available in local fabric stores, however, the designs featured in this episode may not be available.
Robert Kaufmann Co. Inc.
Website:
www.robertkaufman.com
Willowood: Further Adventures in Buttonhole Stitch Applique
by Jean Wells (ISBN: 1571200266)
This title is out of print. Consult local libraries, used book stores or click
here for Amazon.com's book search.
Guests Jean Wells
Author, Quiltmaker, Instructor, Shop Owner, The Stitchin' Post
Website:
www.stitchinpost.com
Also in this Episode
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
