What Are Applique Quilts?

Applique quilting is a technique of where pieces of fabric are stitched to a larger piece of fabric. The applique pieces can

Over Christmas I went to visit family and had a lovely time. I got some great video of kangaroos at my daughters property for my travel channel Travel Tripz and I also caught up with my very talented daughter in law who makes beautiful quilts.

I asked Stacy if she would mind if I shared photos of some of her projects and she was more than willing to share. Stacy has a quilting machine and so she not only puts together beautiful quilts but she also quilts them, and I think they are just gorgeous.

It’s hard to select a favourite but I do love this one. This is an applique quilt with an added stipple effect which I think compliments the design beautifully by not being too bold. Stacy hand stitched the applique onto the quilt and she also hand attached the binding.

Stacy’s Stunning Applique Quilt

So What is Applique Quilting?

Appliqué quilting is a technique of ornamental quilting where you take fabric pieces and sew them onto a base fabric. This allows the quilter to create a wide range of beautiful decorative designs, motifs, or patterns. In traditional pieced quilts the fabric is sewn together to form blocks or shapes however, applying appliqué involves layering fabric shapes on top of the base fabric and stitching them in place. Using this technique give you the opportunity to create a wide range of design possibilities, from intricate detailed work to bold and graphic compositions.

There are a number of methods of doing appliqué quilting, each has it’s own characteristics and challenges:

1. Raw-edge appliqué: In this method, your cut out fabric shapes and attached them to your base fabric by sewing a simple stitch along the edges. The raw edges of the fabric pieces are left exposed. This adds texture and dimension to the quilt. Raw-edge appliqué is a an ideal choice for quilters who want to create a more relaxed looking applique design. This type of applique quilt comes together quite quickly and they look great.
2. Needle-turn appliqué: This technique involves hand-turning the edges of fabric shapes under and then stitching them onto the base fabric with tiny, nearly invisible stitches. However, if like me and you don’t enjoy hand sewing then this method is probably not for you. However for those who love hand sewing this is an excellent way to get an appliqué design with a seamless finish that has no raw edges visible. It does require precision and patience but it results in a beautiful, heirloom-quality finish.
3. Fusible appliqué: For this type of applique you use fusible webbing or adhesive to adhere the fabric shapes to the base fabric before you stitch them in place. This is a convenient and quick, as it takes away the need for hand-turning the edges. However, there are many quilters who prefer to use fusible appliqué as a temporary measure to hold the pieces in place before they secure shapes with additional stitching, which does give added durability to the quilt.
4. Reverse appliqué: In reverse appliqué, your fabric shapes are layered on top of the base fabric, and then sections of the top layer are cut away to reveal the fabric beneath. This creates a layered effect and adds depth to the design. You can also combine this method with the other techniques, such as raw-edge or needle-turn appliqué. This method allow you to achieve intricate and visually stunning results.

The Origins of Applique Quilting

Appliqué is derived from the French word “appliquer,” which means ‘to apply’ or ‘to put on’. This technique of applying layers to fabric has been practiced worldwide for centuries in many different cultures. It can even be traced back to ancient Egypt, where intricate appliqué designs were applied to ceremonial garments and textiles.

Applique quilting was prominently applied during the Renaissance period in Europe. Quilters would painstakingly cut out fabric shapes and stitch them onto a base fabric, creating elaborate designs that ranged from pastoral scenes to heraldic emblems. As quilting spread across continents, appliqué techniques evolved, incorporating influences from many diverse traditions and cultures.

The Artistry of Appliqué Quilts

Appliqué quilts transform fabric into a canvas for artistic expression. You can be as creative as you wish. Unlike traditional pieced quilts, where fabric is sewn together in geometric blocks, making an appliqué quilt let’s you explore a whole host of design possibilities, from intricate detail work to bold, graphic compositions.

We have previously discussed the processes of layering fabric shapes onto a base fabric and securing them with stitches, so we know that quilters employ various techniques. Of these the simplest is raw-edge appliqué, where fabric pieces are attached with a simple stitch along the edges. Then there is needle-turn appliqué, which involves hand-turning the fabric edges under and stitching them in place for a neat and seamless finish. Each method offers its own unique challenges and each presents opportunities for creative expression, giving quilters to chance to experiment with different textures, colors, and embellishments.

Preserving Tradition, Inspiring Innovation

Appliqué quilting honors age-old techniques and traditions however, it also allows the quilter plenty of scope for innovation and artistic exploration. Contemporary quilters continue to push the boundaries of the craft, blending traditional motifs with modern aesthetics and incorporating innovative materials and techniques into their work. So there is a whole range of fabrics and embellishments that you can add to make a gorgeous, colorful quilt.

There are quilters whose art quilts transcend the traditional boundaries as they put together community projects that celebrate cultural heritage. Not only that but appliqué quilting remains a vibrant and evolving art form that resonates with quilters of all backgrounds. So it doesn’t matter if you are stitching a family heirloom, creating a bold statement piece, or paying homage to a cherished memory, appliqué quilts carry with them the stories, emotions, and aspirations of their creators.

The Legacy of Appliqué Quilts

Those of us who love the artistry of appliqué quilts, also recognize their enduring legacy as cherished heirlooms and cultural treasures. Many of these quilts have been passed down through generations. These meticulously crafted works of art serve as a testament to the skill, creativity, and perseverance of quilters both past and present.

In a world that is constantly evolving, the art of appliqué quilting reminds us of the power of tradition, it brings us the beauty of handmade craftsmanship, and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. With each piece of fabric that is applied, quilters breathe life into the fabric, weaving it together and using imagination and love to creating timeless masterpieces that will be cherished for years to come.