How to Applique With Embroidery Machine

Applique is a technique in sewing and embroidery where fabric shapes are stitched onto a background fabric to create decorative designs. It involves handley attaching the fabric pieces, appliqueing the raw edges, or covering them with decorative stitching, such as zigzag or satin stitches.

When it comes to machine embroidery, applique opens up a world of possibilities. With an embroidery machine, you can use multiple thread colors, different stitches, and layers of fabric to create professional-looking designs. By utilizing applique, you can easily add intricate details to your projects, whether it's a quilt, a garment, or even home decor.

Table Of Contents

1. Benefits of Applique with Embroidery Machine

2. Gather Materials

2.1 Thread Colors

2.2 Embroidery Thread

2.3 Sewing Machine/Embroidery Machine

2.4 Base Fabric

2.5 Appliqué Fabric

3. Spray Adhesive (optional)

4. Prepare the Design & Fabric

5. Select a Pattern or Design

6. Cut Out Pieces for the Design on the Appliqué Fabric

7. Place the Pieces on the Background Fabric

8. Tacking Stitches to Secure Pieces in Place

9. Secure the Pieces with Placement Stitches

10. The Takeaway

Learning how to apply on an embroidery machine may seem intimidating initially. But it can become a rewarding skill with practice and the right embroidery tools. Start by selecting your applique fabric, thread colors, and embroidery design. Prepare your base fabric, stabilize it with a stabilizer, and secure it in an embroidery hoop or frame. Then, follow the placement and tack-down stitch instructions to position and attach your fabric shapes. Finally, complete the design with decorative stitching to secure the applique pieces and add extra embellishments.

You can elevate your sewing and embroidery projects to a new level by mastering machine embroidery applique. So, don't be afraid to dive in and explore the endless applique possibilities.

1. Benefits of Applique with Embroidery Machine

Applique is a technique that offers numerous benefits when combined with an embroidery machine. Firstly, it allows for a wide range of customization options. With applique, you can choose from various fabric colors, textures, and embroidery patterns to create unique designs and add dimension to your embroidery projects. Secondly, applique helps to reduce the complexity and time required for intricate details. Instead of stitching every tiny detail, you can easily use pre-cut fabric shapes to add intricate designs. Thirdly, utilizing applique with an embroidery machine gives you the flexibility to easily change thread colors and experiment with different stitches, enhancing the overall visual impact of your projects.

Lastly, applique adds durability to your embroidery work. You can create sturdy designs that withstand wear and tear by layering fabrics and using stitching techniques like satin stitches. Overall, applique with an embroidery machine allows you to take your creativity to the next level and achieve professional-looking results in a fraction of the time.

2. Gather Materials

To applique with an embroidery machine, gather the following materials:

1. Thread colors

2. Embroidery thread

3. Sewing or embroidery machine

4. Base fabric

5. Appliqué fabric

You can create beautiful and professional-looking applique designs with your embroidery machine using these materials.

2.1 Thread Colors

Thread colors play an essential role in applique machine embroidery. The right choice of thread can elevate the overall look of your finished project. When selecting thread colors, it's necessary to consider both the applique fabric and the background fabric.

Matching the thread color to the predominant color of the applique fabric helps to camouflage any stray threads or stitching mistakes. Similarly, using a thread color that complements the background fabric will ensure that the applique design stands out.

Experimenting with different thread colors can add a unique and creative touch to your applique. You can also enhance the look of your applique by using decorative stitches along the edges. Star and rick-rack stitches are just a few decorative stitches that can beautifully showcase your applique design.

Thread colors are a vital component in applique machine embroidery. Selecting thread colors that match the predominant colors of your applique fabric and background fabric can make a significant difference in the outcome of your project. So, don't hesitate to explore various thread colors and decorative stitches to create stunning applique designs.

2.2 Embroidery Thread

When it comes to machine applique, selecting the right and high quality embroidery thread is crucial for achieving a professional-looking finish. Your chosen line should be durable and complement your applique design and fabric. Various types of embroidery thread are available, each with its unique composition, thickness, and color variety.

Cotton thread is a popular choice for machine applique due to its natural fibers and ability to blend well with fabric. It is available in various colors and provides a soft and matte finish. Polyester thread, on the other hand, offers a glossy and vibrant appearance and is known for its strength and durability. It is also resistant to fading, making it suitable for applique projects that may be exposed to sunlight.

When selecting thread for the placement stitch, it is recommended to choose a contrasting color to ensure its visibility on the fabric. This will help you accurately position the applique pieces. Additionally, matching thread for the tack-down and decorative stitches can help camouflage stray lines or stitching mistakes.

Some popular embroidery thread brands for machine applique include Madeira thread, Isacord thread, Sulky, Gutermann, and Mettler. These brands offer a variety of colors and thread weights, allowing you to find the perfect thread for your applique projects.

Remember, the thread you choose can significantly impact the overall look of your applique, so don't be afraid to experiment with different colors and types to achieve beautiful and unique results.

2.3 Sewing Machine/Embroidery Machine

A sewing machine and an embroidery machine have unique qualities, but an embroidery machine is the preferred choice for applique.

While a sewing machine is designed for general stitching and sewing tasks, an embroidery machine is specifically built for creating intricate designs and patterns on fabric. This makes it ideal for applique, as it allows for more precise stitching and faster results than free-motion applique done by hand.

With an embroidery machine, you can upload and stitch out applique designs created with embroidery software. The device accurately places the stitches on the fabric, making it easy to position the applique pieces precisely.

Additionally, an embroidery machine offers a variety of stitch options, including tack-down stitches and decorative stitches. This creates more creative freedom and adds beautiful details to your applique projects.

An embroidery machine can achieve precise and faster applique. It offers more control, accuracy, and versatility than a standard sewing machine, making it the preferred choice for applique enthusiasts.

2.4 Base Fabric

When it comes to applique projects, selecting a suitable base fabric is paramount. The base fabric provides a solid foundation for your design and significantly enhances the overall appearance and durability of your finished project.

Various types of fabrics work well as base fabrics for applique. Cotton is a popular choice as it is versatile, easy to work with, and offers a wide range of colors and prints. Conversely, Linen provides a more textured and rustic look, adding depth to your applique design. If you're looking for a sturdy base fabric, denim is a great option, especially for more durable projects.

In addition to considering the type of fabric, it is also essential to consider the base fabric's color and texture. The base fabric should complement your applique design, enhancing its visual appeal. Consider selecting a base fabric with a complementary or contrasting color to make your applique design stand out. You can also play with different textures to create interesting visual effects.

The base fabric sets the stage for your applique work. Choosing the suitable material ensures that your design looks stunning and withstands the test of time. So take the time to carefully select the correct base fabric, and watch your applique project come to life with beauty and durability.

2.5 Appliqué Fabric

When it comes to machine embroidery, choosing the suitable appliqué fabric is crucial for a successful and visually appealing finished project. There are several fabric options, each with unique characteristics that can significantly impact the outcome.

1. Cotton fabric

Cotton fabric is a popular choice for appliqué due to its versatility and wide range of colors and prints. It is easy to work with, making it ideal for beginners and experienced embroiderers. Cotton also provides a soft and comfortable feel to the finished design.

2. Felt fabric

It is another excellent option for appliqué, especially for projects that require a more textured and dimensional look. It is available in various vibrant colors and adds a cozy and playful touch to any design. Felt fabric is a bit thicker than cotton, so it may not be suitable for intricate and detailed appliqué pieces.

3. Satin fabric

Satin fabric is often chosen for its luxurious and elegant appearance. It adds a touch of sophistication to appliqué designs and works well for decorative and intricate motifs. The satin fabric has a smooth and shiny surface, which reflects light and gives the design a polished finish.

4. Fusible webbing

Fusible webbing is commonly used to adhere the appliqué fabric to the base fabric. Fusible webbing is a thin adhesive sheet that is activated by heat. It allows the appliqué fabric to stick to the base fabric securely, eliminating the need for sewing. Following the manufacturer's instructions when using fusible webbing is essential to ensure proper adhesion.

The choice of appliqué fabric dramatically contributes to machine embroidery projects' overall look and feel. Cotton felt, and satin is top fabric choices with different textures and aesthetics. Fusible webbing ensures a secure and professional-looking bond between the appliqué and base fabric. Experiment with these fabric options to create stunning appliqué designs with your embroidery machine.

3. Spray Adhesive (optional)

Spray adhesive is an optional tool used in appliqué projects to adhere the appliqué fabric to the base fabric temporarily. It is beneficial when working with delicate or slippery fabrics that may shift or move during the appliqué process. Spray adhesive provides a temporary bond that holds the appliqué fabric in place while you stitch. It can be beneficial for intricate or complex designs that require precise placement. To use spray adhesive, spray a light and even layer onto the back of the appliqué fabric, allowing it to dry for a few seconds before pressing it onto the base fabric.

It is essential to use a temporary spray adhesive that can be easily washed out after completing the project. This ensures that the adhesive does not permanently alter or damage the fabric. Spray adhesive can be a helpful tool in achieving accurate and professional-looking appliqué designs. Still, practicing caution and following the manufacturer's instructions is essential to avoid potential issues.

4. Prepare the Design & Fabric

To prepare the design and fabric for machine applique, select a pattern or design you would like to create. Use embroidery software, if available, to determine the design size. Next, cut out the applique fabric pieces according to the pattern or design. Cut the pieces precisely to ensure a clean and professional finish.

Once the fabric pieces are cut, it's time to prepare them for applique. One way to do this is by using HeatNBond Lite, a fusible webbing that helps to adhere the fabric to the base fabric. Following the instructions on the package, fuse the HeatNBond Lite onto the back of the applique fabric. Then, peel away the backing to reveal the adhesive side.

With the fabric prepared, it's time to position it on the base fabric. Cut a piece of applique fabric slightly larger than the design, and adhere the chosen backing to the base fabric using temporary spray adhesive or pins. Gently place the material on top of the placement stitch, following the outline of the design.

By following these steps and using appropriate tools and materials, you can effectively prepare the design and fabric for machine applique. Always use a proper embroidery hoop or frame to secure your fabric, and use the appropriate embroidery thread colors to achieve the desired look. You can create beautiful machine applique designs for various embroidery projects with practice.

5. Select a Pattern or Design

When embarking on an applique project with an embroidery machine, selecting the correct pattern or design is the first step towards creating a stunning finished project.Various sources for finding applique designs, such as embroidery software or online marketplaces, offer many options. You can also create your designs using software that digitizes and creates custom embroidery patterns.

Once you have selected a design, you must obtain the dieline files for the applique pieces. These files can be printed as paper templates or stitched directly onto the applique fabric using embroidery software.

To ensure accurate placement of the applique pieces, it's helpful to use temporary spray adhesive to attach the dieline templates to the fabric. This will provide stability and prevent shifting during the cutting process.

Carefully cut along the sideline to obtain the desired applique shape, following the pattern precisely. The precision of your cutting will directly impact the final look of your applique.

By carefully selecting a pattern or design and accurately cutting along the sideline, you will set yourself up for success in your machine applique project. Let your creativity shine through as you bring your chosen design to life with the help of your embroidery machine.

6. Cut Out Pieces for the Design on the Appliqué Fabric

Once you have selected a design and obtained the dieline files, it's time to cut out the pieces for the design on the appliqué fabric. This step is crucial as the precision of your cutting will directly impact the final look of your appliqué. Start by securely attaching the dieline templates to the fabric using temporary spray adhesive. This will ensure the templates don't shift during the cutting process. Carefully cut along the sideline, following the pattern precisely. Use a pair of sharp scissors to get clean and accurate cuts.

Be mindful of any curves or intricate details in the design, and use curved embroidery scissors if necessary. Take time and cut out all the required appliqué pieces according to the invention. Once you have all the pieces cut out, you're ready to move on to the next step of the appliqué process.

7. Place the Pieces on the Background Fabric

When it comes to applique with an embroidery machine, one of the first steps is to place the applique pieces on the background fabric. After selecting the desired applique pieces, use tacking stitches to secure them in place temporarily. These stitches will hold the pieces in place during the stitching process.

Next, it's time to secure the applique pieces in their final position with placement stitches. These stitches are done using the embroidery machine and will ensure the details stay in place throughout the process.

Load the design onto the machine and securely place the embroidery hoop with the background fabric and applique pieces to accomplish this. Begin by stitching the placement stitches. These stitches outline the applique design, indicating exactly where the details should be placed.

Once the placement stitches are complete, the machine will move on to the decorative stitches. Depending on the desired effect, these stitches add the final details and secure the applique pieces to the background fabric using either a straight stitch or a satin stitch.

Following these steps and using your embroidery machine, you can easily place the applique pieces on the background fabric for a professional and polished finished project.

8. Tacking Stitches to Secure Pieces in Place

Before moving on to the decorative stitches, securing the applique pieces in their designated positions is essential. This is done through tacking stitches, which provide extra stability and prevent the elements from shifting during embroidery. Tacking stitches are crucial when working with larger or more intricate embroidery designs. Load the embroidery design onto the machine and position the background fabric and applique pieces within the embroidery hoop. Using the device, stitch the tacking stitches along the outline of the applique design. These stitches serve as a temporary basting to hold the pieces in place.

It is recommended to use a secure stitch, such as a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch, for the tacking stitches. Once the tacking stitches are complete, you can proceed with the decorative stitches to add the final embellishments and permanently secure the applique pieces to the background fabric. With the tacking stitches in place, you can feel confident that the applique will stay precisely where it should throughout the remainder of the embroidery process.

9. Secure the Pieces with Placement Stitches

Follow these steps to secure the pieces with placement stitches during applique with an embroidery machine. First, select the appropriate thread color and base fabric for your project. Hoop the background fabric and attach it to the embroidery machine.

Next, select the applique design and prepare the applique fabric. Apply a fusible webbing or use a temporary spray adhesive to attach the applique fabric to a stabilizer. Once secured, load the applique design onto the embroidery machine.

Begin stitching by creating the placement stitches. These stitches will outline where the applique pieces will go. Stitch a tacking stitch to make the cutting line and secure the fabric. This will ensure that the applique pieces are positioned correctly.

Using sharp, curved embroidery scissors, carefully clip the excess fabric away from the tacking stitch. Be cautious not to shift the material within the hoop. Take your time and cut as close to the stitch line as possible for clean edges.

After trimming, you have two options to finish the applique. You can press the appliqued fabric with a mini-iron to firmly adhere it to the background fabric. Alternatively, you can use the machine to give a few final stitches to attach the applique to the project.

You can securely attach your applique pieces with professional results by following these steps and using placement stitches. Take care with trimming, and choose the best finishing method that suits your project. Enjoy creating beautiful applique designs with your embroidery machine!

10. The Takeaway

Mastering the art of applique with an embroidery machine opens up a world of creative possibilities. It's a technique that offers countless benefits, from customization and time-saving to enhanced durability in your projects. By carefully selecting materials, such as thread colors and embroidery thread, and utilizing the right tools, like an embroidery machine, you can achieve professional-looking results.

Remember the importance of choosing the perfect base fabric and applique fabric to complement your designs. And don't hesitate to experiment with different textures and colors to make your applique projects truly unique.

Ready to take your applique embroidery to the next level? Contact us today for our expert Applique Embroidery Services and turn your creative visions into reality!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1. What is the primary benefit of using applique with an embroidery machine?

Using applique with an embroidery machine allows for customization, reduces complexity, and offers flexibility in design and thread choices, resulting in professional-looking projects.

Q2. What materials are essential for machine embroidery applique?

Essential materials for machine embroidery applique include thread colors, embroidery thread, a sewing or embroidery machine, base fabric, and applique fabric.

Q3. How does the choice of thread colors impact the outcome of an applique project?

Selecting thread colors that match the applique and background fabric can camouflage stray threads and stitching mistakes, enhancing the final look of the project.

Q4. Why is an embroidery machine preferred over a sewing machine for applique?

An embroidery machine is preferred for applique because it offers precise stitching, the ability to upload and stitch out designs, and a variety of stitch options for creative freedom.

Q5. What is the purpose of tacking stitches in machine embroidery applique?

Tacking stitches are used to temporarily secure the applique pieces in place before decorative stitches are added, preventing them from shifting during embroidery.