This is the link to the full you tube tutorial How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners https://youtu.be/MAe6p0Wcaqs
Table of Contents
How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners is an easy sewing project that is perfect for anyone who wants to learn basic applique techniques while creating something useful and fun.
In this tutorial, I’m going to show you how to make a cute seam ripper applique that can be added to a wall hanging, cushion cover, tote bag, crafting apron, or almost any other fabric project.
How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners is designed with beginners in mind, so you don’t need advanced sewing skills to create this project.
The applique pattern features three separate pieces that come together to create the shape of a seam ripper. You can use different fabrics for each section to create contrast, or keep everything coordinated for a more subtle design.
I’m also using a double-sided fusible adhesive to attach the applique pieces to the fabric before stitching them into place. This makes positioning the pieces much easier and helps prevent them from moving while you sew.
How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
Before you begin, gather everything you need for your applique project.
Materials You Will Need – How to Applique Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
For this seam ripper applique, you will need:
Below are my amazon links, if you decide to purchase from one of these links i may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you
This is the link to my Amazon Store : https://www.amazon.com/shop/faodailcreation
- Free seam ripper applique pattern – https://www.facebook.com/groups/405258636506758
- Main fabric
- Applique fabrics
- Batting if making the wall hanging – https://amzn.to/4q68dDC
- Double-sided fusible adhesive such as Steam-A-Seam – https://amzn.to/4xn4rrL
- Fabric scissors – https://amzn.to/4w7xRJi
- Paper scissors – https://amzn.to/4xkJZrq
- Ruler – https://amzn.to/4hPEPiG
- Pencil or pen – https://amzn.to/4hPEU5Y
- Iron – https://amzn.to/4pVC5lQ
- Wool pressing mat or suitable pressing surface https://amzn.to/4fPFGxg
- Sewing machine
- Embroidery or decorative thread https://amzn.to/4xjOWRp
- Matching bobbin thread
- 90/14 sewing machine needle https://amzn.to/45s0y9f
- Friction pen – https://amzn.to/4fNUMDl
- Optional fabric glue https://amzn.to/4q0E0px
- Optional 12 x 12-inch canvas https://amzn.to/4gdR9YQ
You can adapt this project to suit whatever you want to make.
The applique technique remains essentially the same whether you are decorating a wall hanging, cushion, tote bag, apron, or another sewing project.
Step 1: Get the Free Seam Ripper Applique Pattern – How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
The first thing you need is the seam ripper applique pattern.
The free pattern is available through my Facebook group in the Files section. Once you have joined the group, you can find the pattern there and print it for your project. https://www.facebook.com/groups/405258636506758
The pattern contains three sections:
- The main handle
- The metal section
- The small circular ball section
Before cutting your fabric, look carefully at the pattern because the applique needs to be reversed.
Why Does the Pattern Need to Be Reversed? How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
When you are working with fusible applique, you need to consider which way the finished design will face.
If your pattern has not already been reversed, you will need to flip it before transferring it to your fusible adhesive.
This is particularly important if your design has a specific direction.
If you want the straight edges of the seam ripper to look particularly neat, use a ruler to mark those straight lines on your pattern.
Then you can draw the curved sections by hand.
Step 2: Prepare the Applique Pattern Pieces How to Applique – Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
Start with the main handle of the seam ripper.
Place your ruler along the straight edge and mark the line clearly.
Then draw the curved section of the handle.
Once you are happy with the shape, cut around the outside of the pattern.
Don’t cut directly on the final line at this stage.
Instead, leave a little extra space around the pattern.
You will trim accurately later after the fusible adhesive has been attached to the fabric.
Repeat this process with the metal part of the seam ripper.
Use your ruler to create the straight edge and then follow the curved sections of the pattern.
The small circular ball can also be made slightly larger at this stage.
Leaving a little extra fabric around the pattern gives you some room when positioning and trimming the applique.
Step 3: Transfer the Pattern to Fusible Adhesive How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
Now it is time to transfer your pattern pieces onto your double-sided fusible adhesive.
I like using Steam-A-Seam because it has adhesive on both sides, making it particularly useful for applique.
However, you can use another suitable fusible product, such as HeatnBond, if that is what you have available.
Place the pattern onto the appropriate side of the adhesive.
If you accidentally put the adhesive on the wrong side, don’t panic.
Simply reposition it before continuing.
For each section of the seam ripper, trace the shape onto the fusible adhesive.
Remember that the pieces need to be reversed so the finished applique will face the correct direction.
Leave Extra Space Around Each Piece How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
When initially cutting the fusible adhesive, don’t cut directly on the traced line.
Instead, cut around each shape, leaving a small amount of excess material.
This makes the pieces easier to handle and gives you some extra room when attaching them to your fabric.
Repeat this process for all three applique pieces.
Step 4: Attach the Fusible Adhesive to the Fabric How to Applique Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
Once your pattern pieces have been transferred, place each one onto the appropriate applique fabric.
Make sure the adhesive is positioned correctly.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your particular fusible product.
This is important because different products can require different pressing times and temperatures.
Place the pieces onto your fabric and apply heat according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Do not guess the pressing temperature or time.
Always check the instructions supplied with your fusible adhesive.
After pressing, allow the pieces to cool completely.
Cut Out the Applique Pieces
Once everything has cooled, you can carefully cut around each applique piece.
This time, cut directly on the traced line.
You should now have three neat fabric pieces ready to create your seam ripper applique.
These pieces are the handle, metal section, and circular ball.
Step 5: Prepare Your Project How to Applique | Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
One of the best things about this applique project is that you don’t have to use it on a wall hanging.
You could add the design to a:
- Tote bag
- Cushion cover
- Sewing apron
- Table runner
- Sewing machine cover
- Quilt
- Wall hanging
- Fabric storage project
The technique is the same regardless of the project.
For my project, I’m using a 12 x 12-inch canvas to create a sewing-themed wall hanging.
Before placing the applique, decide exactly where you want the design to go.
Step 6: Find the Centre of Your Fabric How to Applique – Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
If you are making a wall hanging, finding the centre can make positioning your design much easier.
Fold your fabric in half and gently mark the centre.
Then fold it in the opposite direction and mark the centre again.
You now have a central reference point.
I like to use a friction pen for this because it makes temporary markings easy to create.
Think about the angle of your seam ripper before permanently attaching anything.
For this project, I like the seam ripper positioned diagonally.
However, you can place yours vertically, horizontally, or at any angle you prefer.
Position the Applique Pieces How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
Remove the paper backing from the adhesive side of your first applique piece.
You should now have a sticky surface.
Place the main handle onto your fabric.
One advantage of using a fusible adhesive is that you can carefully reposition the piece before permanently pressing it.
Next, position the metal section of the seam ripper.
Finally, add the small circular ball.
Take your time during this stage.
Step back and look at the complete design before pressing it permanently.
Small adjustments at this point can make a big difference to the finished result.
Step 7: Add Batting to a Canvas Wall Hanging How to Applique – Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
If you are creating the same 12 x 12-inch canvas wall hanging, adding a layer of quilt batting can give the finished project a softer, fuller appearance.
Place the batting over your canvas.
I like to use a small amount of fabric glue to help keep the batting in place.
The batting also helps the fabric sit more smoothly over the canvas.
Make sure everything is positioned correctly before continuing.
Once you are happy with your seam ripper applique placement, apply heat according to the instructions for your fusible adhesive.
This will help secure the applique to the fabric.
Allow everything to cool before moving on to the stitching stage.
Step 8: Stitch Around the Applique How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
Stitching around your applique is optional, but I recommend it if you want a decorative finished look.
You can use a straight stitch, zigzag stitch, satin stitch, blanket stitch, or decorative sewing machine stitch.
For my project, I’m using a decorative stitch on my Baby Lock Altair 2.
I selected a stitch that adds a little extra detail without overpowering the applique.
For the thread, I used embroidery thread in the top of the machine and the same colour in the bobbin.
I also used a 90/14 needle.
Sew Slowly Around the Curves How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
When stitching around an applique, don’t feel that you need to rush.
Reduce your sewing machine speed so you have plenty of control.
Start with your needle positioned carefully near the edge of the applique.
Then slowly guide the fabric around the curves and corners.
Slow, controlled movements will usually give you a much neater result than trying to sew quickly.
When you approach a corner, slow down even more.
Make small adjustments to the fabric rather than trying to force it around the corner.
Step 9: Stitch the Metal Section How to Applique – Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
For the metal section of the seam ripper, you can use another decorative stitch.
I chose to stitch down the centre of the metal portion.
This adds a simple detail that helps make the applique look more like a real seam ripper.
Once you reach the end, finish the section with a straight stitch.
Remember that your project doesn’t have to look exactly like mine.
This is your applique project, so experiment with different stitches, colours, and placements.
Step 10: Decide What to Do With the Circular Section
The small circular section of the seam ripper is optional when it comes to stitching.
You can stitch around it, leave it without stitching, or use a decorative stitch.
There is no single correct way to finish this part.
Think about the overall appearance of your project and choose the option you like best.
If you are using this applique on a different project, such as a tote bag or cushion cover, you can experiment with different stitching techniques to suit the fabric.
Step 11: Finish the Wall Hanging How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
If you are making a 12 x 12-inch canvas wall hanging, the final step is attaching your fabric to the canvas.
Fold the fabric neatly around the edges of the canvas.
Then secure it to the back using staples.
Take your time with this step.
The way you finish the back of a wall hanging can make a big difference to the overall appearance of the finished project.
Keep the fabric smooth as you work around the edges.
Try to maintain an even amount of tension so the front remains neat and flat.
Fold the corners carefully and staple everything securely.
How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners How to Applique – Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
This project is a great introduction to fusible applique because it doesn’t require complicated piecing.
Once you understand how to prepare, fuse, position, and stitch the three sections, you can use exactly the same technique for countless other applique designs.
You could create sewing-themed applique designs featuring scissors, sewing machines, buttons, spools of thread, needles, or other favourite sewing tools.
The possibilities are almost endless.
How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
If you’re new to applique, remember that you don’t have to get everything perfect on your first attempt.
Take your time when cutting your pieces.
Pay attention to the direction of your pattern.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using your fusible adhesive.
And when you begin sewing, slow your machine down so you have plenty of control.
These simple steps can make applique much easier for beginners.
Tips for Successful Applique How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
Here are a few additional tips to help you get the best results.
Use Contrasting Fabrics
Choosing fabrics with enough contrast can make your applique design much easier to see.
For example, a dark seam ripper on a light background will stand out clearly.
Don’t Skip the Cooling Stage How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
Allow your fusible adhesive to cool completely before cutting or repositioning the applique pieces.
This gives the adhesive time to set properly.
Take Your Time Cutting
Accurate cutting is one of the most important parts of applique.
Use sharp fabric scissors and follow the traced lines carefully.
Sew Slowly
Decorative stitching around curves requires control.
Reducing your machine speed can make it much easier to follow the shape.
Experiment With Decorative Stitches How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
Don’t feel limited to the stitch I used.
Try different decorative stitches to create completely different finishes.
Final Thoughts How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners is a simple project that can help you build confidence with fusible applique.
The same basic method can be used on so many different sewing projects.
Once you have created your seam ripper, why not try adding applique to a tote bag, cushion, apron, quilt, or another sewing project?
The most important thing is to have fun and experiment.
If you enjoyed this tutorial, make sure you subscribe to Faodail Creation for more sewing, quilting, and applique tutorials.
I also have more free applique patterns coming, so joining the Faodail Creation Facebook group is a great way to find the free seam ripper applique pattern and discover future projects.
How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners is just one of many simple applique projects you can create once you learn these basic techniques.
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How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners
How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners is a fun way to explore Applique.
If you enjoyed How to Applique : Free Seam Ripper Applique Sewing Pattern for Beginners, you might also like Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine you can also try How to Shadow Applique to learn more Applique using your sewing machine.
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