Embark On Your Quilt Applique Adventure: The Ultimate Tool Guide for Beginners and Pros Alike

Welcome to the whimsical world of quilt appliqué! Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just starting out, having the right tools on hand can make your appliqué journey smoother, more enjoyable, and absolutely fabulous. Discover the essential tools you need for quilt appliqué in this comprehensive beginner’s guide.

Let’s dive into the toolbox of treasures you need to create those stunning appliqué designs that will make your quilts stand out from the crowd! To get started, gather these supplies:

Fabric that sings to you.
Simple inspiring patterns.
A trusty pair of sharp scissors.
Lightweight low loft batting for raw edge applique. Color match fabric for backing needle turn applique.
An iron.
Applique needles a variety of sizes.
Thread heaven.
Thimble.
Cutting mat and rotary cutter.
Marking pens that disappear with heat or water.
Bright sunny window to trace by during the day. A good bright light for evening.
Pins for securing your applique.
Seam ripper.
Creative storage solutions for holding your applique project in one place.
Bonus tip: favorite treats and favorite drink

Are you ready to embark on a creative adventure that will add a splash of color and a sprinkle of magic to your quilts? If the answer is a resounding yes, you are in the right place. Even the most simple applique designs can be stunning. So get on board. Take stock of the supplies you already have and make a list of what you need. Then jump in and start your quilt applique. Beware though, it can be very addicting in a good way.

Fabric You Like

You know when you walk into the fabric section of a store, there are certain colors, patterns, or even textures that catch your eye. Choose fabric that sings to you. Cotton fabric is the fabric of choice but don’t discount other fabrics in choosing what you want to use for your appliques. Experiment with a variety of textures to see what you like best. Cotton is what I use the most. I tried some seersucker recently for a little added flair and liked the result.

To learn to applique, start with a simple pattern.

Simple Patterns

If you want to play it safe when beginning to applique, look for a simple pattern. Using a simple pattern doesn’t mean it has to be blase (boring). The fabric you choose can help turn your simple pattern into something inspiring. You can find appliqué patterns in quilting books, magazines, storybooks, (I’m not kidding), or online. For the brave and creative, you can even sketch your own! (Don’t be afraid to design your own!) Try not to start out with super small pieces they are harder to add backing to and if doing raw edge applique harder to sew on to your quilt block.

Scissors

When you think of scissors, you think sharp right? Ah, scissors – the unsung heroes of the sewing world! For appliqué, you need a pair of sharp, fine-point scissors. They help you cut intricate shapes with precision. Invest in a good pair because nothing’s more frustrating than jagged edges on your beautiful fabric pieces. I don’t have a certain brand that I recommend but it makes it sense that whatever brand you use, always make sure they are sharp and ready to go.

Low Loft Batting Or Backing For Your Applique

To do your raw edge applique my way…you will need some low loft batting to put underneath your applique. If you are doing needle turn, I add a backing not interfacing (not a fan of interfacing just personal preference) to my needle turn applique because the backing gives you a clean edge on your applique and keeps your edges from fraying. You will find my tutorials here: How To Make Your Quilt Applique Stunning And Bespoke .

Iron

A reliable iron is essential. Light ironing after you back your applique with fabric, you will turn it inside out and then press it to make it flat and more precise looking. It’s not just about heat; it’s about precision. A small, handheld iron can be especially handy for those tiny pieces and tight corners. I inherited a small iron that I keep right by my sewing machine. It is super handy and makes my appliqueing more efficient.

Applique Needles

When it’s time to stitch, appliqué needles really are your best friends. These needles are thin and sharp, making them perfect for detailed hand stitching. They glide through the fabric with ease, giving your work a clean, professional finish. They come in a variety of sizes. Try a variety of sizes out. I started with a size 11 but after experimenting have found size 5 works best for me. They come in a variety of reliable brands like Brohn, John James, and DMC.

Thimble

A thimble will help make your appliquing more pleasant because it will spare your fingers. Protect those precious fingers! A thimble might seem old-fashioned, but it’s a must-have for hand stitching. It helps push the needle through thick layers without turning your fingers into pincushions. Plus, they come in cute designs, so pick one that is comfortable and that you like.

Thread

Let’s talk thread! You’ll need threads in different colors to match your fabric. Cotton thread is a safe bet for most projects. Cotton thread works well for sewing an applique to your quilt block. Rule of thumb is to match your quilt block background with the thread that you choose to use.

Cutting Mat And Rotary Cutter

You probably don’t think of these tools when you think appliquéing but you should have these already in your quilting tool box. A self-healing cutting mat and a rotary cutter work hand in hand like batman and robin. The mat protects your workspace while the rotary cutter slices through fabric like butter. They’re especially useful for cutting out large shapes and pieces for applique.

Marking Pens A Must

Marking pens and pencils that disappear with heat or water are also essential for tracing applique on your fabric. I love the frixion pens. They come in several different colors but with just a dark and a light pen they meet all my applique needs. Your lines will disappear once you iron your applique.

Essential Lighting

Once you find the best comfortable place to do your applique, it is essential to have enough lighting. A window that lets bright sunny light streaming through it, is highly recommended. If that isn’t available to you or you need more light at night, buy a light that gives you plenty of light for your work space. This is critical to your appliquéing success.

Cute And Functional Pins

Pins are great for securing layers before stitching. Classic pins with colorful heads can add a fun pop to your project. You will want to use a shorter pin for securing your appliques to your quilt block. That way the pin won’t get in your way of your sewing your applique to your quilt block. Lori Ann Holt has several different style of applique pins. Isn’t the pin container adorable! Also, here is a free pattern for a couple of creative cottage pin cushions DIY A Cute Cottage Pin Cushion . (Makes a fun gift too.) Add it to your applique kit.

Seam Ripper

As much as I hate unpicking my sewing mistakes, I use my trusty seam ripper from time to time. It does make fixing my mistakes much easier and quicker. Mistakes are a natural part of sewing and quilting and your seam ripper streamlines turning your mistakes into second chance perfection.

Get Creative With Storage Solutions

This is a fun topic. With all these tools, you’ll need a place to keep them organized. Cute baskets, sturdy bins, or a fancy sewing caddy keeps your space tidy and inspires creativity. Choose a container that looks nice and has a handle. Make sure it is big enough to hold your applique project. It can sit in your comfy, cozy applique space and with a handle on your container, you can grab it and take it on the go.

With these tools you have what you need to begin your quilt appliqué adventure. Add a little patience, practice, and a whole lot of confidence in yourself and you’re on the way. Give it a go. Happy Quilting!