Reverse Applique Tutorial

Reverse Applique Tut...Tut....Tutorial

This is a very simple technique that you can do perfectly, or not so perfectly.  If you have been afraid to sew because of being afraid to make mistakes...this is a PERFECT beginner project!!



So here is what I did: Gathered supplies needed:

1. fusible interfacing

2. solid colored t shirt (handmade OR store bought) ;)

3. sharp...did I say sharp scissors

4. sewing machine and thread

5. seam ripper (just in case)...just saying! ;)


Decide what you want to applique, for your first project, maybe start off with something simple that has a simple shape, like a flower or a heart.  For my tutorial, I have decided to make a Transformer's shirt for my son. 

I cut a piece of the interfacing a tad bit larger than my design and ironed it onto the wrong side of my fabic. I then found the Transformer autobot (VERY important to differentiate that) logo :) I started to draw it on the interfacing.  Again, if you think your artistic skills are a bit short of Rembrandt...so are mine.  This project is forgiving.

Ok the fun step....I turned the shirt inside out, I pinned the fabric with the interfacing facing me and started to sew a straight stitch around the perimeter.

MAKE VERY VERY sure that as you are tracing your lines, you do not get the bottom of the shirt caught underneath the needle, sew it together as one piece and then pull your hair out in frustration...just saying ;)

Another **Tip** is that I back stitched at the beginning and end of each line (look at the pic below and you can see where the stitching is a little darker at the edges)

Once you have finished your stitching, turn your shirt back to the right side, and it should look something like this:

As you can see, it is not perfect, but with this type of applique, that is ok, almost better. Also I only stitched around once.

Now take out you sharpest scissors (also the smaller the better when trying to get into small spaces) Clip away at the areas that YOU want to see the under lying fabric come through on the design.

clip clip clip away....until you are happy with your design! (also keep in mind that once you wash it, the knit fabric will curl a little)


Here's mine:

Cute...hugh?




Hugs and Blessings!
Ingrid

Applique

Applique 101 Part ONE {SEW ALONG}

Because we have had such success in our first MONTH of running Karatootie.  As a Thank You to all of our readers and Followers, I have decided to give you a secret glimpse into my applique.


When I first discovered the world of Boutique clothing and appliques, I learned one thing FAST, no one would give away their tricks.  As a (fairly) crafty mom of a new baby girl, I wanted to dig my hands right in and learn.  I didn't have anyone to teach me, so I just started playing around, making up my own techniques as I went along.  I love to hear that other new moms want to make goodies for their little ones, something that can be passed on for generations.  I always say that if I could do it, anyone can! (REALLY)  If you are intimidated, don't be, just try it, and really the worst case is, it is not as cute as you'd like.  It was still made with your precious hands, and if you enjoy the process, practice, you'll get better...I promise :)


So with that in mind, this may not be the best way, the fastest way, or easiest, but it is my way...and I want to share it with you....my newest best friends: :)


When I applique, my first step is drafting a design that I love, in this case, it is a sweet fumbling lil' elephant, I have named Mr. Saggy Bottoms.  I drew him out on unlined paper.  If I like the design enough, I go over it with a black marker to make it easier to see.  (I used to use sharpies, but after the cloud of disorientation had lifted, I decided to go with plain ol crayolas)

Next, I place my design under my heat n bond.  Remember that your design will be the opposite of however you put it on the heat n bond.  So for example here my trunk will actually end up going to the right instead of the left.  Speaking of heat n bond, I use light, which means it has less glue to gum up your needle. 

Don't put your marker down just yet, next I trace each piece Mr. Saggy Bottoms.  Starting with the ear here, and I am going to overlap it just a bit so that it can go under the face, and be more secure when we start stitching :)

Here are my pieces so far:

Go ahead and get your pieces traced out one by one and join me next week for the next steps :)


Hugs and Blessings,
Ingrid