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This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was retired in August 2007. It is being provided by “Sew What’s Up,” which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: Basildon
Date: 10-25-2004, 09:37 AM (1 of 8)
I recently read a great tip from someone about using dryer sheets in their applique technique, but now can't find it.

Does anyone out there know what and how it was done?

Connie :Canada:

Thank you! :smile:
Connie
User: Basildon
Member since: 09-23-2004
Total posts: 5
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 10-25-2004, 01:33 PM (2 of 8)
Connie,
Probably me , if it was on this site somewhere.. Use dryer sheet that have already been used in the dryer and cut same as your applique. put on right side of fabric and stitch all way around outer edge . I use very narrow seam.. Then pull the pieces apart in the middle so that you can slash the dryer sheet only in the middle.. turn applique thru this opening.. press... and Voila !!! you have your applique ready to attach to your background , and you have no raw edges or extra bulk to worry about.. :love:
Sew With Love
Libby
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002
Total posts: 2022
From: Basildon
Date: 10-25-2004, 01:42 PM (3 of 8)
Thanks, everyone - especially Libby - Applique is a scarry new world for me - I'll try all tips that come my way!

Connie
Connie
User: Basildon
Member since: 09-23-2004
Total posts: 5
From: MaryW
Date: 10-27-2004, 06:47 PM (4 of 8)
Basildon, welcome to Sew Whats New. :smile:

Applique is so nice to do, but I am like you. I am still learning but I love to try and do it.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005
Total posts: 2542
From: lilac
Date: 10-28-2004, 09:54 AM (5 of 8)
I think you want used dryer sheets so they will not stain your fabric with the chemicals and softener normally on them. I might actually wash them just to be safe as you never know the acidity of an item and what it will do over time. We actually cannot use dryer sheets as my son has eczema and it is very drying to skin to use any kind of fabric softener. Sigh...

It is the same idea as Elenor Burns using interfacing to do applique pieces and on HGTV today it was also demonstrated on the pumpkins. If you go to the HGTV site they will give you the link for the free project. Elenor Burns uses a fusible interfacing and the project instructions today does not but I like the fusible as I can baste my applique pieces into place with a quick touch of my iron. You do have to be careful that the dots are right sides together as well....

The idea is that you sew the interfacing or dryer sheet onto your fabric right side facing the product. Once it is stitched, cut a slit into your product and turn it right side out. Trim your seam allowences. Use a knitting needle or chopstick or whatever to carefully push out the edges and wa-la, you are ready to blanket stitch. She also pointed out on today's show that she trims the pieces with a smaller seam allowence, less than a 1/4" as the seam would be too bulky.
User: lilac
Member since: 07-07-2002
Total posts: 102
From: MaryW
Date: 10-28-2004, 01:10 PM (6 of 8)
Lilac, what do you use in place of fabric softener or sheets for your son?
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005
Total posts: 2542
From: lilac
Date: 10-29-2004, 12:30 PM (7 of 8)
We do not use any type of fabric softener or dryer sheets and use either baby detergent or tide free. I sometimes use dawn dish detergent on greasy stains but mostly we use plain old detergent to pretreat stains.

Sometimes the clothes have some static but that goes away long before you ever wear them.... We were informed by the doctor that the way that softeners work is by robbing your skin of moisture and that is what makes them feel soft.
User: lilac
Member since: 07-07-2002
Total posts: 102
From: Basildon
Date: 11-08-2004, 12:53 PM (8 of 8)
Thanks, for your hints - I am really applique challenged - and not really enjoying it - not yet anyway! :nc:

I guess I will just have to keep working on it to get better.

Connie :Canada:
Connie
User: Basildon
Member since: 09-23-2004
Total posts: 5
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