The Rainbow Scrap Challenge colors for April were yellow and gold. I pulled out some scraps earlier in the month for on-going RSC projects and I wrapped up the month with some reproduction fabric scrappy appliqué.
The basket pattern is from Blackbird Designs - When the Cold Wind Blows. I've been using the design to practice machine appliqué techniques.
Inspired by a recent post by Barb (Fun with Barb), I decided to try using 100 weight polyester thread for machine appliqué. Barb had tried the thread for machine quilting, but I reasoned it might be good for machine appliqué as well.
Barb used Invisifil thread, a product from Wonderfil. The thread is advertised as "ultra-fine but surprisingly strong". I ordered some small spools of Invisifil in neutral colors to try on my basket blocks.
For stitching, I used a universal 65/9 needle and 50 wt Aurifil cotton thread in my bobbin. After I adjusted the tension a tiny bit, my machine was very happy with the new thread. In this example, the neutral thread worked well with the fabrics and seems to disappear, although the stitching line is fairly easy to see. What I like about the 100 weight thread is the matte finish.
I ordered my Invisifil thread from Red Rocks Thread, and while I was perusing the website I decided to see if there were any other 100 wt thread options. I wound up ordering a spool of Superior MicroQuilter 100 wt thread. The MicroQuilter thread is advertised as being very strong, but still good for invisible stitching.
The MicroQuilter thread performed just as easily in my machine; I used the same needle and bobbin thread. The stitching is more obvious in this example, but using a different color of thread might improve the "invisibility". Again, the matte finish is a plus. Both of these threads come in a multitude of colors, so getting a close match is possible.
For comparison, I went back and photographed the stitching on an early basket. This block was stitched with invisible nylon monofilament thread (YLI brand, but others are available). The nylon thread is good for recreating the look of hand appliqué, but the thread does have a glossy look.
OK, now that I've bored you with all my thread experiments, go over to the weekly Rainbow Scrap link-up for some scrappy inspiration!
are you fusing your baskets, or turned under edges?
ReplyDeleteYour baskets are so pretty! I thought the thread info was fascinating! I really didn't know that there are so many different choices for different kinds of looks. I have a tendency to sew with whatever I have on hand!
ReplyDeleteI do not like the shiny monofilaments - neither does my Bernina. I need to look into the ones you mentioned today as alternatives.
ReplyDeleteI love your little baskets ;))) So cheery in yellows. hugs, Julierose
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading about the threads - thanks! My only experience with monofilament thread was a long time ago and I didn't like it At. All. Apparently it's gotten better in the intervening decades!
ReplyDeleteThanks for mentioning thread and needles used! I never used to like the look of machine applique but your's looks wonderful. Of course anyone that tries it has to be able to maneuver properly around the shapes too which is a lot of my problem. I imagine those baskets are very small? Seems that would be even more difficult. Anyway...awesome job on those baskets!
ReplyDeleteThis months baskets are so cheery. It has been a long time since I used a poly or nylon thread. Long ago it used to be as thick as fishing line! I prefer the matt finish too and I think I have a spool of the Invisifil. The options just keep expanding.
ReplyDeleteYour basket blocks look great, and I liked the info on threads, needles, etc. I haven't done much machine applique, but maybe it's time to try it again!
ReplyDeleteSo interesting, I'll have to try some of the Invisifil next time I order. I'm wondering if your basket edges are turned under or if they are fused.
ReplyDeleteThanks for a great post. It came at the perfect time for me as I’m wringing my hands (and maybe my neck) over the upcoming appliqué stitching needed for my Groovy Guitars fused quilt. I don’t like the shiny monofilament and I’m pretty sure my Bernina wouldn’t be overly thrilled either. I’m going to order some of those threads and needles you mentioned, so thanks again!
ReplyDeleteThread experiments are great! I've been trying a few new (to me) threads as well...and, I appreciate your sharing your experience with the poly threads! This basket quilt is one I've had on my list to stitch for a loooong time! One day I'll start it...;-)
ReplyDeleteThose baskets are so beautiful ! And thank you for the tips about the thread !
ReplyDeleteIs it easy to make a knot with it ?
Love the baskets. I like using monofilament thread but not ALL of my machines feel the same. My Brother sewing machine does not work with it no matter what adjustments I use. Fortunately, both the Pfaff and Janome play nice :)
ReplyDeleteLove this experiment! I tried the invisible thread once... and got so frustrated with it. Of course that was many moons and a different machine ago. Love your little baskets.
ReplyDeleteLove your little baskets! I've been wanting to make some, but haven't started yet. Soon......
ReplyDeleteLovely reproduction baskets, they look good on the creamy background. The machine appliqué looks great.
ReplyDeletePerfect machine appliqué.
ReplyDeleteYou are well beyond the practicing part of applique--these are beautiful! I am so happy that I've finally found yet another Louisiana blogger.
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