Reverse applique is the art of layering fabric, and then cutting away each layer to reveal the layer underneath.
For the tree,
I layered red, then green on top of the red, and then white was put down as the top layer. The heart
was done by laying white over red (a third layer could be added as well). The edges
of the cut away fabric are hand stitched under with tiny, "invisible" stitches. Top stitching can be applied around
the entire outside edge of the cut away image if desired. For the wallhanging, I topstitched around the tree itself, and around
each individual tree ornament. I topstitched around each heart in the hot pad.
This takes a bit of practice, but is well worth it
in my opinion. It creates a very unique and pretty look. The hand stitching and machine topstitching
can be seen in the photo on the right. I use the needle to turn under the edges for hand stiching. Then I use my machine to topstitch. The topstitching holds the edges securely. Use contrast thread for topstitching for added embellishment.
For FREE lessons on reverse applique, I highly recommend the following site: www.quilterscache.com
