Overlay for applique placement

I've had questions about the overlay. You can find the plastic drop cloths at a hardware or paint store. I bought one today which was 3 MIL thick 9ft X 12ft. Cut plastic to the size of your pattern then using a Sharpie black pen (won't smear or wipe off) trace the pattern onto the plastic. Also write on the top somewhere which is the right side up ( usually I write which block it is) so you don't flip it over and have things going the wrong direction. I pin two corners so it doesn't move around and then lift the plastic to lay the cut pieces in place. This method is used when you can't see thru the background or don't have a light box. I hope this has helped.



To trim or not? I trim the fabric if it is a large piece and I'm going to hand quilt on top of it. Never had any problems of coming loose after many washings. If I'm having it machine quilted then I don't trim away the fabric.

Thanks for all of the great comments, as I just love reading all the them on both mine and every ones postings. Keep quilting and posting.
Julee