I'm going to need A LOT more practice!

I am taking the idea of the pictured quilt to make a gift for dd kindergarten teacher. I have hand traci.gs from all but 2 of her students so far. I came across a technique for applique where trace the pattern onto light weight interfacing, sew the interfacing to the right side of the fabric, cut a slit in the interfacing, then flip it. I though wow so easy I can handle that, and no raw edges to turn under. Yeah right, I'm not so good at sewing curves on the line! The pic of the Irish Chain block is my first attempt at a stitch and flip applique. The center of the flower and the petals vaguely resemble the pattern! They are not stitched down yet. Oy, 24 little tiny hands, what was I thinking?!?!
Heidi

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Looking good, I like that top one a lot for someone that works with children, or has children.

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It doesn't look bad. If you loosen the pressure on your presser foot it'll be easier to sew the curves.

Or, if you just use a fusible web applique technique and do a tiny zigzag around each applique with YLI monofilament thread, it'll be a breeze (and it'll look great). Much easier to go around curves. http://www.allpeoplequilt.com/techni...le-turn_2.html

Or, check out doing it this way: http://www.generations-quilt-pattern...-applique.html

I've never liked that sew-and-turn applique method - it IS hard to get nice smooth curves.

Beautiful idea, the teacher will love it! It will be easier with the fusible web.

The teacher's quilt is really cute! You might try the freezer paper technique that Dandish mentioned for it to make it a little easier.

I do quite a bit of applique, but I do mine by hand(needle turn). I found that I could do it just about as quick as trying to do it on the machine. FWIW, I don't care for doing it with the fusible stuff, but that's just me.

For the Irish Chain there's another method you might want to try. I use it for simple shapes all the time-circles, leaves, etc. It's a product called heat resistant template plastic(I get mine at JoAnn's). You cut out the shape that you want and then gather the fabric around it and hit it with the iron. Pop out the plastic and you have a piece ready to go. It gives a nice crisp edge with turned under seams.

Here's a link to give you the idea of it(I do mine a tad different). http://guildcrafters.wordpress.com/c...quilting-tips/

Have you cut all of your fabric for the Irish Chain? If not, I can help you cut out a few seams to make it quicker for you, if you want.

Terri, I do not have the patience to applique by hand! I might try the fusible web method for the little hands! The irish chain was for Melissas swap so I'm done! I found out I dont have patience for little strips and 4 patches so I might not attempt 1 again lol!
Heidi

You did a great job on the block and I'm dieing to see the teachers when you get it done