Master the Art of Whip Stitching Wool Applique

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. The Importance of Whip Stitches in Wool Applique
3. Materials Needed for Whip Stitching
4. Choosing the Right Needle and Thread
5. Step-by-Step Guide to Whip Stitching 5.1 Preparing the Background Block 5.2 Selecting the Wool Shape 5.3 Threading the Needle 5.4 Starting the Whip Stitch 5.5 Burying the Thread Tail 5.6 Making Angled Stitches 5.7 Securing the Thread 5.8 Turning Over the Applique 5.9 Using Different Threads for Whip Stitching
6. Other Techniques for Wool Applique 6.1 Buttonhole Stitch 6.2 Needle Turn Hand Applique
7. Resources for Learning More
8. Conclusion

The Simple Whip Stitch: A Guide to Holding Down the Edges in Wool Applique

Wool applique is a popular technique used in various crafts, including quilting and embroidery. It involves attaching wool shapes to a background fabric to create intricate designs and textures. While there are different methods for securing the edges of the wool, one of the simplest and most versatile techniques is the whip stitch.

The Importance of Whip Stitches in Wool Applique

Whip stitches play a crucial role in wool applique, as they hold down the edges of the wool shapes securely. This stitching technique ensures that the applique remains in place, even with regular handling or washing. Additionally, whip stitches create a neat and polished look, seamlessly blending the wool with the background fabric.

Materials Needed for Whip Stitching

To successfully whip stitch your wool appliques, you will need a few essential materials:

• Background block: Choose a fabric block that complements your wool shapes and provides a stable base for stitching.
• Wool shapes: Cut and fuse the desired wool shapes onto your background block using a fusible web.
• Needle: For whip stitching, a Bowen No. 9 crewel needle is recommended. It is an embroidery needle that works well with various threads.
• Thread: There are different thread options for whip stitching. Pearl cotton threads, such as Presencia No. 12, are popular choices. Alternatively, you can use variegated hand-dyed wool or flower thread for a unique look.

Choosing the Right Needle and Thread

Selecting the proper needle and thread is essential for successful whip stitching. The Bowen No. 9 crewel needle is an excellent choice, as its sharp point easily pierces through the layers of fabric. As for the thread, consider using a thread color that matches or contrasts with your wool shapes, depending on the desired effect. Pearl cotton threads provide a smooth finish, while variegated or metallic threads can add embellishments and visual interest to your applique.

Step-by-Step Guide to Whip Stitching

Follow these steps to whip stitch your wool applique with ease:

5.1 Preparing the Background Block

Before starting the whip stitching process, ensure that your background block is ready. Cut and fuse the wool shape onto the block using a fusible web. Use a fabric adhesive, such as Soft Fuse, to secure the shape in place.

5.2 Selecting the Wool Shape

Choose the wool shape you wish to whip stitch. Consider the color and size of the shape, ensuring it complements the overall design of your project.

5.3 Threading the Needle

Thread your Bowen No. 9 crewel needle with the desired thread. To thread the needle easily, hold the eye end of the needle, bend the thread over it, and pull it through.

5.4 Starting the Whip Stitch

To start the whip stitch, position your needle on the edge of the wool shape, right next to the background fabric. Take the needle underneath the wool shape, about an eighth of an inch from the starting point.

5.5 Burying the Thread Tail

To secure the thread and prevent it from being visible on the backside, bury the thread tail into the background fabric. Make a small loop by catching a little of the background fabric, then go from bottom to top through the loop. This knot will keep the thread in place.

5.6 Making Angled Stitches

Hold the needle as if you were doing a regular applique stitch, with your top hand controlling the needle movement and your middle finger of the underneath hand providing support. Insert the needle straight down into the background fabric next to the wool shape, making sure to catch the edge of the wool.

5.7 Securing the Thread

As you move the needle underneath the background fabric, ensure that it comes up slightly closer than an eighth of an inch from the previous stitch. By doing so, you will catch a sufficient amount of the wool edge, preventing it from unraveling. Adjust the tension of the thread to your preference, neither too tight nor too loose.

5.8 Turning Over the Applique

Before turning over the applique, insert the needle from the outside at the location of the knot. This will help you easily locate the starting point when you flip the applique over.

5.9 Using Different Threads for Whip Stitching

While wool threads such as Wonderfil's Lana wool thread create a seamless blend with the wool applique, you can experiment with different threads for varying effects. Pearl cotton threads, like Presencia's No. 8 or other brands, provide a more prominent stitch appearance. Variegated hand-dyed wool threads or flower threads offer unique textures and colors for creative embellishments.

Other Techniques for Wool Applique

Apart from whip stitching, there are other techniques you can explore for wool applique:

6.1 Buttonhole Stitch

The buttonhole stitch is a decorative stitch that creates a raised edge around the wool shape. It adds texture and visual interest, making it a popular choice for more intricate designs.

6.2 Needle Turn Hand Applique

Needle turn hand applique involves hand-sewing the edges of the wool shape onto the background fabric without using any adhesives. It requires precision and skill but offers a softer and more traditional look.

Resources for Learning More

To delve deeper into the world of wool applique and explore additional techniques and projects, you can refer to the following resources:

• YouTube: Look for Becky Goldsmith's wool applique videos, where she shares her expertise and tips on various stitches and projects.
• "Birds in Toyland" Book: Check out Becky Goldsmith's book, which features her wool applique designs and provides step-by-step instructions.

Conclusion

Whip stitching is a versatile and straightforward technique for holding down the edges in wool applique. By following the step-by-step guide and choosing the right needle and thread, you can seamlessly integrate wool shapes into your projects. Experiment with different threads and explore other applique techniques to add depth and creativity to your wool applique endeavors. Happy stitching!

Highlights

• The whip stitch is a simple and effective technique for securing the edges of wool applique.
• Choosing the right needle and thread is crucial for successful whip stitching.
• Whip stitching creates a neat and polished look, blending the wool seamlessly with the background fabric.
• Other techniques like the buttonhole stitch and needle turn hand applique offer additional options for wool applique enthusiasts.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different type of needle for whip stitching? A: While a Bowen No. 9 crewel needle is recommended for whip stitching, you can experiment with other embroidery needles that work well with various threads.

Q: Do I need to knot the thread when whip stitching? A: Knotting the thread is optional, but it is recommended to bury the thread tail to prevent it from being visible on the backside of the applique.

Q: Can I use a different type of thread for whip stitching? A: Yes, you can choose from various threads like pearl cotton, variegated hand-dyed wool, or flower threads to create different effects and embellishments on your wool applique.

Q: Are there any resources for learning additional wool applique techniques? A: Yes, you can watch Becky Goldsmith's wool applique videos on YouTube or refer to her book "Birds in Toyland" for more in-depth instructions and projects.