Last week, I decided I needed a project that was just for me, and that hand work would be better than machine sewing for right now. So I went to my library, and pulled all the books I could find with some  hand appliqué projects included. I was a little shocked to find so many books already in my stash! (I’ve listed them all below)

My new hand appliqué addiction - AmysCreativeSide.com
Fresh Picked Posies: 12 Quilt Blocks to Applique from Piece O’ Cake Designs
The Rose of Sharon Block Book: Winning Designs from the EQ6 Challenge
A Batch of QuiltSoup: Fun Patchwork and Easy Appliqué Patterns
Home Sweet Quilt: Fresh, Easy Quilt Patterns from Jillily Studio
Scrap-Applique Playground: Turn Quilting Scraps into Fun Applique Fabrics
Hand-Appliquéd Quilts: Beautiful Designs & Simple Techniques
Hand Quilted With Love

All of these books have a slightly different method, and directions – I’m learning that it really is about what works for me, and can see how some variations might come from what I’ve learned, and done so far. After looking through all the books and being overwhelmed by the options I went to my Craftsy classes and watched again Big Techniques from Small Scraps with Sarah Fielke. I’ve also referenced Jill Finely’s videos with Fat Quarter Shop, for a slightly different approach, but really loved the small project in the Big Techniques from Small Scraps class to get me started.

My new hand appliqué addiction - AmysCreativeSide.com

I printed the directions, selected a background, and fat eighth bundle from Momo, then proceeded to stay up much too late cutting out pieces, and pressing them with starch. But it was so fun!

My new hand appliqué addiction - AmysCreativeSide.com

Here’s everything prepped and laid in the proper places. I then glue basted everything in place and got started stitching.

My new hand appliqué addiction - AmysCreativeSide.com

I’ve been using a tiny needle, 50wt Aurifil in a variety of colors, and Thread Heaven to keep the tangles to a minimum. I’m loving the act of sitting and stitching the pieces into place. The texture and feel of the fabric, as it melts into the background is so fun to see and feel.

I’m not sure why I resisted so long, I’ve always love hand stitching my bindings in place. I think hand appliqué just seemed too time consuming. But coming and going from a project as I am able, is a nice way to approach a project, and a project without a deadline is quite addicting!

Have you tried something new lately? 

Already love to hand appliqué?

I would love to know your tips and tricks!

Thanks for stopping by –

Amy