I bring the same stuff every Sunday; what can I say? I really do slow stitch on Lake Effect.
This photo shows a very good view of the basting stitches (in dark thread) that form the vine I am appliqueing. The method is known as "back-basting" and affords the most success I have ever had with applique.
Looking at the back of the panel, one can see that the design has been traced out. I used my big dining room window as a makeshift lightbox. Then I cut my vine fabric the same size as the panel (yes, there will be waste). I layered the two fabrics together, the vine fabric right side up on the back of the tracing. Then I used big stitches and dark thread to stitch along the design of the vine. Where you no longer see dark stitches, I have appliqued the design, so my light-colored stitches are visible.
So, back basting = baste the design on the back, turn it over to applique from the front.
It is easier than any other method of applique I have ever attempted. The trick is to cut away just 8 or 10 stitches of basting at a time - just enough to give your needle room to work the folding-under process.
The best teacher of this method, in my opinion, is Jeana Kimball. I found her on Instagram, and she did a few videos awhile back that were incredibly helpful. Maybe you can dig them up if you are interested in learning the method.
Have a great day, friends! And have a productive week!
I am linking with all the stitchers over at Kathy's Quilts for her weekly Slow Sunday Stitching party. Her motto for the day: "Relieving Stress One Stitch at a Time."
Happy Quilting, Friends!
Slow and steady wins the race! Pretty!
ReplyDeleteYour stitching is always lovely to look at. Thank you for the link. I must look at it.
ReplyDeleteI have never heard of back basting before but I am so intrigued. I love the applique and do a lot of needleturn applique. I am definitely going to research this . Thank you for sharing. I have learned something new. Happy quilting.
ReplyDeleteI agree, back basting is the best way for applique. So what if your applique is slow, that's fine. Every stitch is one more closer to the finish. Applique is supposed to be fun, happy stitching!
ReplyDeleteI saw Jeanna Kimball show this method years ago on Simply Quilts and it was a revelation to me. I have never enjoyed appliqué very much, but this method really helped my attitude. I still prefer piecing, but I CAN appliqué if I have to. Plus, I love the work of Jeanna! Carol in Texas
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing these photos and explanation of back basting. You've mentioned the method before but I never understood exactly how to do it. Thanks for the links too :-)
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