Appliquè – What’s it all about??

 

 

 

 

I posted an article on my facebook page a few weeks ago about Appliquè, admittedly not knowing anything about it. I was encouraged by both Sarah Flynn & Nikki Perkins to give a go. Thank you ladies 🙂

So with their recommendations in mind I went into Cork Craft Supplies in Paul Street Shopping Centre and purchased a half metre of Bondaweb (or Wonderweb)….a necessity when attempting Appliquè.

Firstly I need to explain…What is Appliquè?

Appliquè gets its name from the French verb ‘appliquer’, which means to apply. It is a decorative technique that requires you to cut up fabric into shapes, iron on the Bondaweb (following the instructions below) and then peeling off the backing paper, ironing your shape onto your fabric of choice. To complete your design, with the sewing machine using a zig zag stitch, sew around the edges, thus ensuring your motif will not fray. This can be accomplished with hand sewing if you do not have a machine.

Bondaweb – What is it?

Bondaweb is a double-sided fusible webbing, which basically means its an iron-on fabric adhesive, best described as like baking paper (greaseproof) with glue on one side.

 

Where to begin…….

• Draw or trace your design on one side.
• With the glue-side facing the REVERSE side of fabric iron it down on a low setting.
• Once the glue has set (seconds), cut the shape accurately, peel off the paper backing carefully & place down on your chosen fabric. This could be a bag, a T-shirt, a cushion, really any item you chose to decorate.

 

 

• Again, with the iron, press in place.
• This technique is then repeated as you build up your motif, layer on layer.
• When the motif is complete, using a sewing machine or handsew, use a zig-zag stitch and sew around the edges to prevent any fraying.

Two VERY important Notes:

1. The glue on the Bondaweb is on one side only. Ensure to iron paper side (glue-free) or it will stick to your iron
2. Make sure the fabric you are using can be ironed without melting.

I sat down & approached this project with my two young ladies where we each decided on what we would make.  I went for a loveheart design to add my sewing bag (my first project…ever!!). My 12 year old went for a cupcake design & my 9 year old chose a butterfly.

The designs were downloaded off the web & traced onto the Bondaweb. We then set about cutting, ironing & layering as described above.

My 12 year old decided to handsew her motif with some added beading to give it a special touch and the result was very impressive I think… She intends to attach it to her sewing box 🙂

My 9 year old decided to not bother with the final stitching, as she was too eager to see it finished. She built up her butterfly on a pink pillowcase, one I suspect will never be be allowed to see a washing machine!!!

 

I added a decorative button to my motif and my Appliquè motif now graces the outside of my sewing bag.

 

I know it’s not perfect, but I intend to further my learning of Appiquè for many reasons.  It is a craft form that can be as easy or as difficult as you choose. I think it’s an absolutely great tool for kids to learn. It opens up an enormous window of creativity for them. Any old t-shirts, bags, denim jackets can be made as individual as a child would like. With adult supervision, any child can become an expert on Appliquè…why not?? You too may learn a new trade along the way…

I hope you enjoyed this article & hopefully you will feel encouraged to give it a go.  It really is EASY so GO ON 🙂

Til next time.

Mairéad

 

xxx