YLI thread
Viewer Q&A :Leaf Points with Needle-Turn Applique
Mon, 08/02/2010 - 09:17 | 
admin 
A viewer asks, "Is there a book or pamphlet that would be good for a beginner to applique showing needle turning points and freezer paper method?" She was also looking for details on needleturn.
I haven't come along any really good books that give great pictures or details on needle turn. Much of what I learned came from workshops and classes at Qulit Shows. I always needle-turn without the use of freezer paper. I like to keep my work simple, the less steps the more enjoyable for me.
For leaves, tuck the point with three folds. 1. Tuck, needle-turn, as you come up to the point, then when you get to the point trim any excess fabric. 2.Fold again horizontally to your leaf, and also trim the next long side of the seam allowance. 3.Fold under the next long side and begin needle turning from the point you just created and down the long side of your leaf.
Hint: Before you begin appliqueing the long side after the point, take one stitch AT the point and give it a tug. This helps to give you a sharp leave point.
Second Hint: The fabric you are using matters. Loosely woven, inferior quality fabrics make a BIG difference for applique. If the fabric doesn't comply with your folding and tucking and it frays then you should select a better quality cotton. To name a few top quality lines: Robert Kaufman, Hoffman, Moda, P&B, South Seas Imports..There are many others as well. Be sure to purchase great quality fabric from a reputable Quilt Shop and to avoid the $3.99/yard specials at the mega stores.
Third and final Hint: Thread matters. Be sure you are using a thin cotton, 50/3. 60/2(even better) or silk( best choice). These thin cotton or silk threads will blend into your applique fabric to near invisibility. Be certain to match your thread to your applique fabric. My favorites are YLI silk 100wt( amazing!!), Aurifil 50/2( so thin and beautiful), YLI Soft Touch.
Tags: New Colors come to NEQ - YLI Silk Thread for Applique
Sat, 07/24/2010 - 08:50 | admin 
I am expanding the YLI Silk Thread line with eight new colors coming to the quilt shop! Use YLI silk thread to create nearly invisible needle turn stitches. Find the color that most closely matches your applique fabric, not the background. Using a straw, or applique needle, and possibly a needle threader, and enjoy the smooth stitches. I love that its a natural fiber, like the cotton I use for my fabrics and Hobbs Wool or Hobbs Heirloom for my batting. For more information on applique see my Video on Hand Applique .
YLI Hand Quilting Thread
Fri, 02/26/2010 - 12:28 | admin 
My preferences for a particular thread come from my own experiences in using many of them. I don't especially like when threads break, unravel or knot. I've learned to avoid metallics or cotton covered polyester, and many 100% cottons. Such cotton threads are made from lessor quality fibers, have an inadequate twist or finish.
YLI Hand Quilting Thread has been my favorite since I began using it. I love the colors and especially how it does not knot or break when I'm quilting. Below is an excerpt from an article I wrote about threads. You can find the complete article by clicking on the NEQ Media Center box on the front page of www.NancyEllenQuilts.com