Sometimes, when I am working on a repetitive take-along type project, I’m not too enthusiastic about sitting at my ironing table pressing the same shape over and over again. I do really like stitching an already turned edge however. Pumpkin seed blocks are a perfect example of this so I thought up a more portable way to make these “seeds” without having to press. As many of you know, I have been experimenting with Floriani Stitch and Wash. It turns out this makes a good template for these types of shapes. Here’s how I did it:
First, I traced my shape onto the non-fusible side of the Floriani.
After cutting this out I ironed it to the wrong side of my seed fabric.
Then I cut a scant ¼” seam allowance.
To turn the edge I just used a nice neutral thread and, starting from the front, basted the seam allowance to the back.
To deal with the point I stitched up to point and started to turn the next side over. Then I took a stitch to secure this.
Here I have bent the point to the back and secured it with another stitch.
When it’s all done I had a nice “seed” to appliqué. The Floriani is fused to the back but that’s fine because it will puff up when I wash it and give the “seed” a little poof.
Don’t forget to check in with today’s Sullivan’s Cutting Edge bloggers at:
http://springwaterdesigns.blogspot.com
http://carolinapatchworks.com/blog
Check back Monday for the ruler winner!
I love this. Looks easy enough and very practical. Thanks.
Posted by: Linda | 09/30/2011 at 06:08 AM
This looks like a nice alternative. I'm still pretty new to applique, so I appreciate all the tips and tricks I can find!
Posted by: Angie | 09/30/2011 at 07:20 AM
I just received a swap block from Australia with Floriani in the petal shapes. I was surprised how stiff it is, but we've been assured it will soften up with washing. Now I'd like to try it!
Posted by: Tina | 09/30/2011 at 08:35 AM
Interesting. It makes it very portable. I guess I need to see what it is like after being washed out.
Posted by: Tonya | 09/30/2011 at 12:27 PM
Gosh, I feel indebted to you for all your wonderful suggestions. Finding your blog is one of the best things that's happened to me in quilting in a long time. No pressure - just wanted you to know how much I appreciate all your tips. I will give Floriani a try.
Posted by: Polly | 09/30/2011 at 01:01 PM
wow, I am going to buy me some, that was the best, thanks for sharing.....l
Posted by: Donna R. Shelby,nc | 10/01/2011 at 04:09 AM
Aw nuts. I'm halfway through a petals quilt already. Wish I had known earlier!
Quick question - since there's Floriani between the applique and the backing, do you leave the backing in place?
Posted by: Peggi | 10/02/2011 at 10:36 AM
yes
Posted by: erinrussek | 10/02/2011 at 02:58 PM
I am curious if the Florianni dissolves completely after washing? Bernie
Posted by: Bernie | 10/03/2011 at 09:40 PM