Threads

I use similar tools to others for applique so instead of showing the same things, I thought I'd give you a look at my thread caddy. This is mark two, bigger to hold more threads.

I made it in a class with Australian applique artist, Lois French who had the rights to teach it from the originator, Pat Campbell. Lois made some slight changes in her pattern and I'm sorry to say it's not available for sale as a pattern but if you wanted one of your own, they are available for purchase at Pat Campbells website.

The threads I like to use are the Mettler 60 wt embroidery cottons, these are just about the whole set which I collected over a period of time. There are two pockets, one to hold your block and one with a vinyl zippered section to hold tools.

What I Like

My tools

These are some of the things I like for applique.

 First I was taught to use silk thread and have not been able to use anything else. I have tried a couple different brands but I really like YLI.
 My favorite marking tool is a very thin Pigma Pen. It makes a very fine line that I can see! For dark fabrics I use Roxanne's Quilter's Choice in silver and white.
I like Roxanne's glue (you just need a dot of it to hold) and also use a glue stick sometimes. If it is a small piece I use very small applique pins.

My favorite needles are straw needles. I like the extra long length and they come in a very thin size. It was how I was taught and I find it hard to use something smaller. I usually use John James or Bohn brands.

My little snips are a favorite, they are easy to pick up and snip the threads.
Two favorite wild card things are Fray Check along the edge of the background fabric which keeps it from unraveling as you stitch and a toothpick to turn under those stubborn edges.

Kelly