How to Applique

Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners : Easy Halloween Wall Art Tutorial

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This is the full you tube tutorial link : https://youtu.be/IJb8qfKvilg

Cassie Cartmell – Faodail Creation

Table of Contents

Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Introduction : Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

If you are looking for a fun Halloween sewing project, this Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners is a wonderful place to start! In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to create a cute ghost applique using fusible adhesive, fabric scraps, and your sewing machine.

This project is perfect for anyone wanting to learn the basics of machine applique. You don’t need to be an expert at sewing, and you don’t need a complicated design to create something unique.

I’m turning my ghost applique into Halloween wall art using a canvas, but you can use this design on all sorts of sewing projects. Imagine adding a little ghost to a cushion, tote bag, fabric panel, or another handmade Halloween decoration.

The best part is that the ghost applique pattern is available for free in my Faodail Creation Facebook group! Join the group to access this design, along with previous applique patterns and new designs as they become available.

Whether you are new to applique or simply want a quick seasonal project, grab your fabric scraps and let’s get sewing!

What Is a Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners?

Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Applique is a sewing technique where you attach one piece of fabric to another to create a shape, picture, or decorative design.

For this project, we’ll use fabric to create a ghost with two eyes and a mouth. Fusible adhesive helps hold the pieces in place, and then we’ll stitch around the shapes using a sewing machine.

A ghost is an excellent design for learning applique because the shape is simple and you don’t need to follow an intricate pattern.

I’ll also show you how I use a free-motion quilting technique to stitch around the ghost. I like a slightly sketchy, imperfect finish rather than a perfectly smooth outline. It gives the finished ghost a playful, handmade appearance.

Remember, your project doesn’t have to look exactly like mine. You can experiment with the placement of the eyes, the angle of the ghost, and the type of fabric you use.

Materials and Supplies for Your Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Before starting, gather your supplies. Having everything ready makes the sewing process much easier.

Supplies for the ghost applique

Below I have included my Amazon Links, if you decide to purchase from any of these links I may recive a small commission at no extra charge to you

My Amazon store https://www.amazon.com/shop/faodailcreation

Additional supplies for Halloween wall art

If you want to turn your ghost into a canvas decoration, you will also need:

  • One 12 x 12-inch canvas. https://link.amazon/B0aymVSAl
  • One 11 x 11-inch piece of quilters’ batting.
  • One 16 x 16-inch piece of fabric for covering the canvas, as needed for this finishing method.
  • Suitable adhesive for attaching the fabric to the back of the canvas. https://link.amazon/B01jBJw4Z

A quick note: The 16 x 16-inch fabric size is a suggested interpretation of the dimensions mentioned in my demonstration. Check your canvas depth and wrapping allowance before cutting your fabric.

You don’t need the canvas supplies if you want to apply your ghost to a tote bag, cushion, or another fabric project.

Step-by-Step Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Follow these eight steps to prepare, assemble, stitch, and finish your ghost applique.

Step 1: Download and Prepare Your Free Ghost Applique Pattern

Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

The first step in this Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners tutorial is to get your free pattern.

Visit the Faodail Creation Facebook group and join to access the ghost applique design. You’ll also find other applique designs in the group, making it a useful resource if you enjoy sewing seasonal decorations.

Once you have downloaded or printed the pattern, lay it on a flat surface.

Take your Steam-A-Seam and place it over the ghost pattern. Using a pencil, trace around the outline of the ghost.

Don’t worry if your tracing isn’t perfectly neat. You don’t have to follow every line with absolute precision at this stage.

If you’re working with a larger sheet of fusible adhesive, cut around the traced shape, leaving a little space outside the line. Don’t cut directly on the traced line yet. You’ll trim the fabric more accurately after attaching the adhesive.

This makes the pattern easier to handle and helps you prepare the fabric without accidentally cutting away part of the design.

Step 2: Trace the Eyes and Mouth Using Fabric Scraps – Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

One of my favourite things about applique is that you can use up small scraps from previous sewing projects.

For this ghost, you’ll need two eyes and a mouth. These pieces are small, so leftover black fabric is ideal.

Trace the eyes and mouth onto the fusible adhesive. I like to label the pieces so I can identify them easily when assembling the design.

When positioning the eyes on the pattern, leave a little space between them. In my demonstration, I aim for approximately a quarter of an inch between the eyes, although you can adjust the spacing to suit your design.

The mouth can be positioned underneath the eyes to give your ghost its expression.

You can experiment with the placement if you want your ghost to look surprised, spooky, or a little more cheerful.

Using fabric scraps for these details is a great way to reduce waste and make the most of materials you already have.

Step 3: Prepare the Fabric and Attach the Fusible Adhesive – Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Before attaching the adhesive, press your fabric with an iron to remove wrinkles. If necessary, use a lint roller to remove loose fibres.

Next, lay your ghost pattern pieces on the fabric to check that everything fits. I like to audition the pieces before permanently attaching them because it gives me an opportunity to adjust the layout.

Once you’re happy with the placement, follow the instructions supplied with your particular Steam-A-Seam product.

Depending on the product version, you may need to remove a backing layer, position the adhesive correctly, and press it to transfer the adhesive to the fabric.

Work slowly when peeling away the paper. You don’t want to remove the wrong layer or accidentally lift the adhesive away from the side where you need it.

Repeat the process for the eyes and mouth.

Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct temperature, pressing time, and any other requirements. Different fusible products can have different application instructions.

Allow the pieces to cool before moving on to cutting.

Why use fusible adhesive for applique? – Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Fusible adhesive helps hold your fabric shapes in position while you sew around them. It can make applique easier for beginners because the pieces are less likely to move while you stitch.

It is particularly helpful when working with small details, such as the eyes and mouth of this Halloween ghost.

However, fusible adhesive does not replace stitching when your project requires stitched edges. For this wall-art design, we’ll sew around the shapes to secure them and create the decorative outline.

Step 4: Cut Out All the Ghost Applique Pieces – Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Once the adhesive has been applied and the pieces have cooled, it’s time to cut them out.

Carefully cut along the traced lines for the ghost, both eyes, and the mouth.

Take your time, especially around the smaller details. Accurate cutting helps the shapes fit together neatly when you assemble your applique.

You should now have all the pieces needed to make your ghost.

Before moving on, check that the eyes and mouth are the correct size and that the edges look tidy. If a small section needs trimming, carefully adjust it now.

This is also a good opportunity to check that the ghost fits the fabric or item you intend to decorate.

Step 5: Find the Centre and Arrange Your Ghost Applique – Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Find the Centre and Arrange Your Ghost Applique – Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

For my Halloween wall art, I’m using a 12 x 12-inch canvas.

Before positioning the ghost, I find the centre of my fabric. I do this by folding the fabric in half and then folding it in half again. I finger-press the folds to create a temporary guide.

I then use a friction pen to mark the centre point where the folds meet.

Make sure your marking tool is suitable for your fabric and test it on a scrap first. Follow its removal instructions, particularly if you plan to iron over the marked area.

Now remove the backing paper from the ghost applique and position the shape on the fabric.

You can place the ghost straight up and down or angle it slightly. I like having the freedom to experiment with the position before pressing everything into place.

Next, arrange the eyes and mouth.

Take a moment to stand back and look at the overall design. Check that the facial features are positioned where you want them and that the ghost is centred appropriately for your finished project.

When you’re happy with the layout, press the applique according to the fusible adhesive manufacturer’s instructions.

Beginner tip: Don’t rush this stage. A little time spent arranging the pieces makes it easier to achieve a finished design you love.

Step 6: Add Quilting Batting for Stabilization – Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

For my canvas wall art, I use an 11 x 11-inch piece of quilters’ batting behind the fabric.

The batting provides additional structure and support because we’re going to use free-motion quilting to stitch around the applique.

Place the batting behind the fabric, making sure the layers are aligned. Pin the fabric and batting together to help prevent them from shifting as you sew.

Before taking everything to the sewing machine, check the ghost one last time.

Make sure the fusible adhesive has secured the pieces, the eyes and mouth are correctly positioned, and the fabric is sitting smoothly over the batting.

If you’re applying the ghost to a cushion, tote bag, or another item instead, your stabilisation requirements may be different. Choose a suitable stabiliser or backing for the fabric and the intended use.

The important thing is to support your fabric sufficiently for the stitching technique you plan to use.

Step 7: Sew Around the Ghost Using Free-Motion Quilting – Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Now we can move to the sewing machine!

In my demonstration, I’m using a Baby Lock Altair 2, a sewing and embroidery machine.

My setup includes black embroidery thread in both the top and bobbin, a 90/14 Microtex needle, and an open-toe foot suitable for free-motion quilting.

I switch the machine to sewing mode and lower the feed dogs using the machine’s designated control.

Machine controls differ, so check your sewing machine manual for the correct settings and setup for free-motion quilting.

Stitch around the eyes first – Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

I begin with the eyes.

Using free-motion quilting, guide the fabric under the needle and stitch around the first eye. Then repeat the process for the second eye.

Free-motion quilting allows you to move the fabric yourself rather than relying on the feed dogs to move it through the machine.

This makes it possible to follow the curves of the applique and create your own decorative lines.

If you haven’t tried free-motion quilting before, the eyes are a good place to start practising. You only need to follow a small, simple shape.

Stitch around the mouth – Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Next, sew around the mouth using the same technique.

Move the fabric steadily and try to keep the stitching close to the edge of the applique.

Don’t worry if your lines aren’t perfectly even. With this particular design, I’m aiming for a sketchy, slightly messy appearance rather than a perfectly polished outline.

Stitch around the outside of the ghost – Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Once the eyes and mouth are complete, move on to the outside edge of the ghost.

Follow the entire outline using free-motion quilting. Take your time around the curves and change the direction of the fabric as needed.

I like the look of slightly irregular stitching on my applique projects. It gives the ghost character and makes the design feel playful.

You don’t need to stitch over the same line three times. The aim is to outline the shape and create the effect you want without worrying about making every stitch identical.

If you’re new to free-motion quilting, practise on a scrap sandwich of fabric and batting before working on your finished project.

Free-motion quilting tips for beginners

  • Start slowly until you feel comfortable guiding the fabric.
  • Keep your fingers away from the needle.
  • Follow the outline of the applique rather than concentrating on perfect stitches.
  • Practise curves and circles on scrap fabric first.
  • Check your sewing machine manual for the appropriate free-motion settings.
  • If you experience thread breakage or skipped stitches, stop and check your threading, needle, tension, and machine setup.

Remember that practice makes a difference. Your first free-motion project doesn’t need to be perfect to be successful.

Step 8: Finish Your Ghost Applique Wall Art – Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Once you’ve completed the stitching, you’re ready to turn your ghost applique into wall art.

For my project, I’m using a 12 x 12-inch canvas. I apply suitable adhesive to the back of the canvas to help secure the fabric and keep it from shifting.

Work carefully and follow the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the product is appropriate for the materials you’re using.

Pull the fabric into position evenly so that the front looks smooth and the ghost design sits where you want it.

Take care not to distort the applique or pull the fabric so tightly that the design becomes misshapen.

If you’d like more detailed instructions on attaching fabric to a canvas, I’ve created a separate tutorial covering that process. You can link to it here:

Read my tutorial on how to attach fabric to canvas

Allow the adhesive to dry or cure as directed before displaying your finished wall art.

Your Halloween ghost is now ready to display!

If you chose to applique the ghost onto a tote bag, cushion, or another fabric item instead, finish the project according to the construction requirements of that item.

More Ways to Use Your Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

One of the great things about this ghost applique is that the design isn’t limited to wall art.

Once you’ve learned the basic technique, you can use the pattern as inspiration for other Halloween sewing projects.

Here are a few ideas to try.

Make a Halloween cushion

Add the ghost to the front of a cushion cover before assembling the cushion. Choose Halloween colours or use a neutral background for a simple seasonal decoration.

Decorate a tote bag

A ghost applique can make a plain fabric tote bag more interesting. Consider the placement carefully so that the design remains visible when the bag is in use.

Create a Halloween fabric panel

Make a decorative fabric panel that can be displayed each October. You could even create a collection of seasonal applique designs to coordinate with your other decorations.

Experiment with fabric scraps

Try different fabrics for the ghost, eyes, and mouth. Small scraps are perfect for the facial features, and changing the fabric colours can give the design a completely different appearance.

You can also experiment with the stitching. A simple outline works well, but you may prefer a more sketchy finish like mine.

Common Questions About the Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Can beginners make this ghost applique?

Yes! This is a suitable project for learning the basics of applique. The design uses simple shapes, fusible adhesive, and straightforward stitching around the edges.

If you’re new to free-motion quilting, practise on scraps first so you can become comfortable controlling the fabric.

Where can I get the free ghost applique pattern?

The free ghost applique pattern is available through the Faodail Creation Facebook group. Join the group to access this design and discover other applique patterns shared there.

Do I need a Baby Lock sewing machine? – Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

No. I’m demonstrating the project on a Baby Lock machine, but the basic applique technique can be used on other compatible sewing machines.

Your machine’s settings and controls may differ, so consult its manual when setting up for free-motion quilting.

Can I use this ghost applique on something other than a canvas? Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Absolutely! You can use the applique on a tote bag, cushion, fabric panel, or another suitable sewing project.

Choose an appropriate stabiliser and finishing method for the item you’re making.

Do I have to use black thread? – Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

No. I use black embroidery thread for my demonstration because it gives the ghost a sketchy outline. You can choose a different thread colour if you prefer a softer or more colourful effect.

Why do I need fusible adhesive?

Fusible adhesive helps hold the applique shapes in place before and during stitching. It is especially useful for keeping small pieces, such as the eyes and mouth, in position.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying your chosen product.

Final Thoughts on This Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners

I hope you’ve enjoyed learning how to make this Ghost Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners!

This project is a fun way to explore applique, use up fabric scraps, and create a handmade decoration for Halloween. By tracing your shapes, applying fusible adhesive, arranging the pieces, and stitching around the edges, you can create a ghost that is uniquely yours.

I especially enjoy using free-motion quilting to give my applique designs a slightly sketchy finish. It’s a reminder that handmade projects don’t always need perfectly straight lines to have personality.

Don’t forget that you can adapt the design to suit your own projects. Try it on a cushion, tote bag, or fabric panel, or turn it into wall art as I’ve done here.

Join the Faodail Creation Facebook group to get your free ghost applique pattern and discover more applique designs.

If you enjoyed this tutorial, please watch the video, subscribe to the Faodail Creation YouTube channel, and leave a comment telling me how you plan to use your ghost applique.

Thank you so much for sewing along with me. Happy sewing, and I’ll see you in the next tutorial!

Join my FACEBOOK GROUP

Faodail Creation Facebook Group Link where I have all my free patterns

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Owl Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners – A Fun & Easy Fall Wall Hanging

Owl Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners – A Fun & Easy Fall Wall Hanging is a fun way to explore Applique.

If you enjoyed Owl Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners – A Fun & Easy Fall Wall Hanging, you might also like FREE Sunflower Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners you can also try Daisy Lap Quilt to learn more Applique using your sewing machine.

The above links lead to Faodail Creation You Tube Channel

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