LIGHTING UP YOUR APPLIQUE

I love to do applique using my Embroidery machine, but I especially like doing applique when I can cut the objects out with my Brother Scan N Cut.  You get clean cuts....it's just great.

HOWEVER..... trying to place those pieces on to your hoop accurately so that the tackdown stitches catches all of the edges and ultimately be covered by the satin stitches or bean stitch (If that is what you are using) for your finished stitching THIS CAN BE TRICKY.

BUT  - I found a solution.  I was cleaning out my sewing room closet for an upcoming garage sale and I found a light box that I bought ages and ages ago.  Mine is by Artograph called a Light Tracer. It has a screen that is 10 x 12 inches.  I bought it a long time ago, but I am sure I bought it at Michael's or Hobby Lobby with a 40% off coupon.

My idea was what if I could place my hoop on to the light box, turn the light on and then be able to see where to place my applique piece ACCURATELY!  Because the light would shine through....my fingers were crossed.

And you know what?  IT WORKED.  It work even on dark fabric.  I was able to place my applique piece on my hoop making sure the tackdown stitches would be caught on all edges.  It also insured that my bean stitch would catch as well.

In the example I am showing below I did not use a satin stitch and I inflated my cut file 3mm.  Its the look that I wanted to achieve on this quilt.

For a satin stitch finish I usually inflate my cut files about 1.2 to 1.5mm.....more often 1.2mm

But this method would work for placing applique pieces when using a satin stitch as well.

When I placed that shell piece over the applique position stitches I could see through the green fabric and was able to accurately place it on the hoop.

As you can see, I was able to stitch the tackdown stitches and catch all of the material.
This isn't rocket science, but I have 164 more of those blocks to do and this is going to be a lifesaver in placing my applique pieces.

Just wanted to share my light bulb, or should I say Light Tracer moment.

Happy Embroidering!