Basics of Reverse Appliqué

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Travel Project Near Completion


The hand work project that I took on vacation is in the quilting phase of the process now. I anticipate being able to reveal the final piece next week. In the meantime, I thought I'd give a general overview of the reverse appliqué process.

The first thing to understand is the difference between appliqué and reverse appliqué. 

Appliqué is essentially an adding process; a shape is cut from one fabric and sewn in place on a second background fabric. 

Reverse appliqué is basically the opposite; it is a subtracting process. The supply list for this technique is very short: two pieces of fabric (with the same dimensions) and thread. The only other things needed are a needle for hand sewing, a good pair of scissors, and lots of time and patience. This makes it an ideal travel project, assuming you are checking your bag with the scissors when you travel. 

  • Step 1   Shapes are drawn out on the background fabric, as if drawing on a piece of paper. 
  • Step 2   The prepared background fabric is placed on top of the second fabric which is right side up. They are then basted together. 

  • Step 3   Fabric is carefully cut within the unbasted areas, allowing for enough edge to be turned under and sewn in place, thus revealing a shape in the fabric below.  
  • Step 4   When all the shapes have been revealed, the basting stitches are removed and the excess fabric trimmed away on the back side.

It may sound like a lot of work, but this is a very versatile technique. Reverse appliqué can free the quilter to achieve even more with their designs. It's a great tool in your "tool box for creativity!"



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