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If you’ve tried knitting, sewing, quilting, and crocheting and are getting the itch to try something new, it’s time to turn your attention to needle turn appliqué. You’ll find all the supplies you need at a quilt shop, and the guide below will help you get started.

What Is Needle Turn Appliqué?

“Appliqué” is a French word that translates literally to “applied.” In this case, it refers to a quilting technique where you cut small pieces of fabric and sew them to a larger piece.

While sewing, you turn the seam allowance—the area of the fabric between the stitching line and fabric edge—under your design. This technique visually blends the smaller pieces into the base fabric.

In Hawaii, appliqué quilts were inspired by traditional Hawaiian bed covers, called kapa moe, and imported fabrics. They were often made using two fabrics and had a single, symmetrical design, achieved like you might cut a snowflake from paper. Many designs included curved lines and plant motifs inspired by Hawaii’s natural beauty.

quilt shopWhy You Should Try It

Whether you’re an avid quilter or new to the activity, needle turn appliqué allows you to create unique designs. You can maneuver the needle to sew smaller, more intricate forms that are difficult to do on a machine, adding an extra wow factor to your clothing or accessories.

How to Begin

First, you’ll want to think about a design. When you’re a beginner, it’s best to look for larger designs because turning the seam allowance under smaller cuts of fabric is challenging. Keep in mind that you can change a design to suit your skills as you go.

For example, if you’re sewing flowers onto a larger fabric and having a hard time tucking seams under tiny flower petals, you can make each petal rounder or larger to realize the same design with less difficulty. 

To get started, visit a quilt shop to get basic supplies, including appliqué needles and pins, thin cotton thread, sharp fabric scissors, spray starch, and fabrics.

 

If you’re looking to start needle turn appliqué, visit The Maui Quilt Shop in Kihei, HI. Their friendly staff will help you choose the right fabrics and materials for your project. You can also enroll in their traditional Hawaiian quilting class to learn more about the history and techniques of needle turn appliqué. Space is limited, so call the quilt shop at (808) 874-8050 to reserve your place. Visit their website to shop their inventory.
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