Applique - part 2
Today I am going to show you how to do the stem for your tulip, then at the end I will show you an idea to use your new skills!
To make a stem, you have to cut the fabric on the bias - which simply means cutting it diagonally. This means that the fabric will stretch to go round curves. I am going to show you a very simple way to make your stems, which doesn't involve bias makers.
If you are using a cutting mat, it will have a diagonal line marked on it, if not the easiest way is to start with a square of fabric - you can simply fold it in half on the diagonal to find your line to cut on.
Cut a strip one inch wide, fold it in half and iron it.
Tuck the end of your stem under the edge of the tulip, with the fold to the left. Put a pin in, as you can see in the photo ......
.... fold the stem over and check that it will be centred on the tulip
Pin the stem so that it curves, and taper it so that it comes to a point. I have only stitched a small stem for demonstration purposes, but you can make yours longer.
Sticth the seam with a backstitch - I have used a contrasting thread so you can see what to do
This is now the scary bit!! Trim the seam allowance, so that .......
..... when you turn the stem over, the seam allowance is covered - you can use your cocktail stick to tuck the raw edge in.
Stitch the stem in place, using the same small stitch we used to stitch the tulip.
Once the stem is stitched in place, finish stitching the tulip in place.
Now that you have mastered basic applique, here is an idea for a wallhanging, using three tulips
I started with a twelve and a half inch square, and appliqued the tulips. I added the purple border, the white border, then the outer green borders. I embroidered 'spring' on the white border. (I hope to make matching wallhangings for the other seasons!). Once it has been quilted and bound, I will add a ribbon bow
I will show you how to quilt it, both by hand and machine ..... but that can wait for a few weeks, until you have finished your applique!!