Tip for needle turn applique

Submitted by Shirley

When you make things like leaves for applique (things with curves or points) and you are not adept at needle turn applique, the suggestion is to put two layers of fabric right sides together, draw your design (leaf) onto the fabric, stitch around your drawn line then cut the leaf out with pinking shears.  The pinking shears make indentations into the seam allowance which saves clipping curves after.  Cut a small slit in the back of the fabric and turn.  I usually fold a large piece of fabric and draw multiple leaves on.  They are easier to sew in large form than as individual leaves.  Also you can use a lighter weight fabric on the back.  I’ve even used old dryer sheets.