Saturday, July 25, 2009

Let's Talk About Applique

While I'm plucking the little velcro balls from the sheep's wool I can't help but think about what to make with it once I shear them next spring. I'm thinking it will be fun to try making wool felt to use in wool applique projects. I'm working on a block of the month project now. It is one of Lori Smith's Fit-to-Frame patterns.

I really enjoy wool applique. It's about as easy as it gets. Just a simple blanket stitch and your done.

Julie-Ann and I have been discussing the possibility of using the blanket stitch for Lori Smith's Heritage Sampler pattern done in cottons. I think it could work. And I think it would look especially nice with some beautiful variegated pearl cotton like this. But a single solid color thread could make it more traditional, too. I think it would depend on the look your going for.

I'm certainly no expert, but the old-fashioned needle turn method isn't as difficult as some make it out to be either. The trick is to finger press on the drawn line leaving a crease. It makes turning with the needle SO much easier.

This orange peel pattern would make a good beginner project (yes, I'm talking to you Milah). It's going together more quickly than I imagined.

So either way, Julie-Ann, I think we can do it. We just need to dive in instead of dipping our toes.

8 comments:

Connie from Beverly Hills California said...

Christine, They are beautiful. You are very talented. Connie

Unknown said...

It's kinda hard to finger press when your all thumbs! Don't laugh, you should see me type!;D

The Rabbit Factory said...

Wool is just soooo amazing...your blocks are gorgeous. Love that box of pearl cotton as well! Great colors!

Kathy said...

Beautiful blocks! THanks for sharing with us.

LDWatkins said...

Are you making the wool felt now? If not, when you start, hope you'll take us through the steps!!

StitchinByTheLake said...

I love working on wool! And I love Valdani Pearl cotton - are those the threads you're using? blessings, marlene

Julie-Ann said...

Well, Christine - I do love the wool blocks and they do look so easy! That looks fun.

Right now I'm not ready for hand turned applique. I agree with Milah - I am all thumbs! And I have enough hand work with binding 5 quilts!

Once I retire . . .

Sharon said...

Wow, your wool applique is looking so beautiful. Wool is so yummy to work with, and pretty forgiving, but more a winter thing for me! We're 90*+ this week, so no wool for me, thanks! I'll just enjoy yours!