Hand Applique like a dream....

I was so happy with the quality of the Clover silk threads that I posted about this week...that I jumped right into an applique project. It will be a wall-hanging...and while I can't share the entire look of it here is a beginning look just the same.

Working with silk threads for applique is the same difference as working with crochet cotton rather than rope! One is so much more pliable than the other...and easier to get into tight corners. The needle I like to use is a #10 milliners because it is thin but sturdy.

While my goal is always to have stitches that don't show at all...my eyes are not what they used to be so I do get a few tiny stitchers here and there. The silk makes this much forgiving than working with cotton...even the thinner 2-ply variety. These photos are REALLY close up, so from a normal distance the work looks even better. Ha, maybe I should stand across the room...and I'd be really happy then. :)

I hope Janet gets these up on her site at Creative Impressions soon! Or, just call her at 1-719-596-4860 to talk with her about which colors you need.

If you are wanting to begin an applique projects...select colors that match as close as possible to the color of your applique piece(s). But, if you want to economise...purchase a medium gray, light gray, and cream. These will be close enough to just about any color to hide sufficiently. Then buy a couple of colors each month..until you have the entire set! I'd go with black next...then greens (there are always leaves to applique)...and then work through each main primary color.