learn to make an applique quilt, making an applique quilt, free quilt patterns, free quilting patterns

Learn to Make an Appliqué Quilt Top by ZigZag Method

Appliqué quilts are fun to make. They are more like a piece of art work transferred onto fabric and then quilted. This example is just to show how to appliqué. Use your imagination and create a work of art!

For this example we are going to use zigzag appliqué method and just make a mini quilt top. This would be a great practice for anyone. You will Need: -computer paper to make the heart patterns -3 different prints of scrap fabric for hearts -solid color fabric for quilt top measuring 12" From computer paper, make 3 different heart patterns ranging from 6" - 8".
Pin and cut out one heart from each pattern.
Arrange the hearts on the pretty side of your quilt top the way you would like them to be. Pin in place.
Zigzag around the bottom heart first. For best results use a wide zigzag with a small stitch length. Zigzag stitch as close to the outer edge of the heart as possible. This is the appliqué method using zigzag stitch to make a quilt top.

Traditionally, most appliqué on quilts were sewn by hand with turned under edges by needle or pressed under, or over a template.

Today quicker and easier methods of appliqué techniques work fine. This can be done with fusible web to fasten the appliqué piece and then machine stitch with free motion, or with a close set zig zag stitch to form a satin stitch edging.

(place photo here)

(two piece fabric appliqué quilt)

Here's a very creative idea by just using 2 pieces of fabric. Have one piece of fabric for the background of your quilt about 22" X 28". Have another piece of fabric the same size and cut a design out that you have drawn free hand, or use a free clip art, or use a coloring book picture. Put fusible web on the ugly side of your top layer that you want to cut out and either press it on the background fabric, or zigzag or what ever appliqué process you like. Just two pieces of fabric are used, however the results are stunning. No need to use templates, or cutting little pieces, or gathering numerous pieces of fabric. It almost give an appearance of a "silhouette" type of quilt.