"A Mullen" wrote in message ...
Hi,

I am in search of some help with embroidering/satin stitching fabric to
denim overalls.



I hope someone can help!



Right now, what I am doing is cutting out the fabric, using spray adhesive
and then satin stitching right on the denim overalls around the edges of the
fabric. I use a tear-away stabilizer on the back to help enforce the
stitching and to make the fabric run smoothly over the feed dogs.



I had been using iron-on adhesive, but decided to switch to spray adhesive
since it is faster and the iron-on adhesive seemed to show through the light
colored fabrics.



Does this sound like a good process so far?



I am using an Elna Quilters Dream sewing machine, not an embroidery machine.
Do I need an embroidery machine to make the stitching more professional
looking?



I use regular Coates & Clark thread. Is there a better thread to use? I
know Sulky is good for rayons, but I am just looking for a plain looking
thread now.



Someone had recommended to me that I take my piece of fabric and embroider
it onto the tear away and do all the detail in the middle and around the
outside edges. To make an actual appliqué. Then I should use a stitch of
"some kind" to adhere the appliqué to the denim. What kind of stitch do I
use so it doesn't show over the satin stitching on the appliqué? How do I
make sure the edges of the appliqué are securely fastened to the denim so
that the edges don't fray?



I would think it would be easier to do all my embroidering to make the
appliqués and then attach them to the overalls. But I am just not sure how
or if it will look professional? Any advice?



I am just trying to make some holiday outfits for my 2 boys. I thought
dressing up overalls would be easy, but my stitches are uneven and I break
needles and thread all the time!



Thanks so much!

Allison Mullen

PA

Here's something you could try:
Carfully mark the outline of your applique design on the applique
fabric, so it shows on the wrong side of the fabric.

Place the applique on a lightweight, tightly woven fabric of a similar
color, like broadcloth, right sides together.

Using small, straight stitches, 10-12 per inch, stitch around the
outline of your applique.

Trim very carefully to 1/4 inch. Clip corners.

Carefully cut a slash in your broadcloth, and turn the whole thing
right side out.

Now, embroider, embellish, satin stitch the edge, you may need a
stabilizer for that.

I worked in a tailor shop for 20 years. We stitched appiques on just
inside the satin stitch.

You sound like the type who wants things to look perfect, but if
you're willing to compromise a little, use a product like Fabri-tac to
attach the appliques. Or that iron on product, whose name escapes me
at the moment. (Darn that mental-pause) More time left to play with
the boys. Anyway, how long will they hold still? Long enough so
someone's going to look and think to themselves, "Ooh, she did all
that embroidery, and then just glued them on?"