Machine Embroidery Appliqué using a Satin Stitch
One of my favorite things to do with machine embroidery is appliqué. It’s easy and fast and the best way to coordinate your projects. The only negative thing I can think about for machine embroidery appliqué is it’s too fast. You won’t have the time to do “something else” as the next step will be there soon.
I will be discussing four types of machine appliqué in this blog. The first post is about the most common using a satin stitch to finish the edges of the appliqué pieces.
First of all, I keep a basket of scrap fabrics from previous projects to use for appliqué.
The steps for machine embroidery appliqué using satin stitches are very easy.
When we stitch out machine embroidery designs, our machine will stop for each color change. Appliqué works the same way only when the machine stops, it is a signal to do the next step. Most digitizers will use the color RED for your placement stitch. Color BLUE for a tie down and then whatever color they thinks looks good for the satin stitch. I do things a bit different as the Designs Information states what each color stop will accomplish.
I hope I haven’t lost you, as it really is easy and now to prove just that. I attached a butterfly so you can practice.
Butterfly Appliqué for the 4x4 hoop.
First hoop your stabilizer. Different stabilizers are used for different fabric bases.
Tear-away is used more for light projects, where the fabric can hold its shape on its own.
Cut-away is for fabrics like t-shirts that needs a little help holding its shape.
Water Soluble Stabilizer (WSS) is used for a towel or where you will need the stabilizer to provide stability while the project is stitched but you don’t want the stabilizer to show on the back.
I use tear away stabilizer most of the time.
Now back to your butterfly.
Hoop the stabilizer and fabric in a 4x4 hoop. (Try and go with the smallest hoop that project you are embroidering can use.)
Step 1 – This will stitch the butterflies antennas. So, simply choose the color (I used a dark color)
Step 2 – RED color stop but use whatever color will work with your fabric. This step provides an outline of the wings. Now place fabric over the outline making sure it covers the area completely.
Step 3 – BLUE use the same color as before and now the wings will be doubled stitch to hold the fabric piece in place.
Remove hoop from machine and carefully trim around the outside of the stitching. Do NOT remove fabric from hoop.
Step 4 – Put the hoop back on your machine and now using the same color thread, machine satin stitch the wings.
There you are over halfway finished!
Step 5 - RED color stop but use whatever color will work with your fabric. This will outline the butterfly’s body. Place fabric over the outline making sure it covers the area completely.
Step 6 – BLUE use the same color as before and now the body will be doubled stitched to hold the fabric piece in place.
Remove hoop from machine and carefully trim around the outside of the stitching. Do NOT remove fabric from hoop.
Step 7 – Put the hoop back on your machine, use the same color thread, machine satin stitch the body.
You’re done! Wasn’t that easy? Now you can add butterflies to match any of your projects.
Check out our other appliqués that are always at a great price. PNW-Embroidery Applique'
Join the Appliqué of the Month Club on our MeWe Group (it's free)
The next Hints-Tips Blog Post will discuss Raw Edge Appliqué.