Exploring Appliqué

 I’m exploring appliqué again. The patterns from www.shinyhappyworld.com are so cute and easy to create using printable HeatnBond or freezer paper sheets. I made several to test the stiffness of the fusible as I like soft, lovable, functional quilts. It all started with a new baby quilt. I was inspired by how my sister loves to tell stories from our growing up on a farm to her granddaughter. The Noisy Farm pattern made in pinks and purples fits their nursery color scheme. I so appreciate how the pattern maker includes  fusible print sheets layouts. They are reversed and exploded ready to print…..no tracing! Definitely a time saver. 

Noisy Farm baby quilt gift

I used HeatnBond Featherlite and even with Fray Block, it frayed on the raw edges more than I expected. So I made a second one and was more careful to ensure the underlay was wide enough as these are straight stitched around edges.  Chunks and hunks, those are little pieces too big to throw away are perfect for appliqué. It’s my favorite stash busting technique now.

Next I made another testing the various weights of HeatnBond, freezer paper and tacky glue thinking I’d find my best way for appliqué. But I like them all, each product has its special use. I like HeatnBond over other Fusibles because in my tests, it held the best. AND, it only takes 2 seconds on first fuse and 6 on second. That’s a big deal! No, counting to up to 20 seconds per iron size press. 

Test Sampler 

I love making these fun kid quilts!