Chapter 9: Reverse Applique-Traditional and Contemporary Methods

Sample 1: Traditional method - reverse applique with hand stitching. This used a simple shape, starting with the outside shape stitched, cut and turned under first and working inwards towards the centre.













Sample 2: Similar to sample one with machine outlining used for all shapes.Outside shape was stitched and cut first, then the second and third shapes moving inwards. Note that the centre layer contains trapped fabric pieces under blue net.


Sample 3: Inside shape stitched and cut first, plus the border framing the outside edge of the sample. Then the second and third shapes were stitched and cut, progressively moving outwards from the innermost shape. Machine outlining was used for all shapes.


Sample 4: Slashed method using five layers of fabric. Design was machined through all layers using double rows of stitching for strength, then fabric slashed through multiple layers of fabric. The slashed edges were rubbed to fray and distress them.











Sample 5: "Ripple" effect created by using several layers of fabric, with colour & fabric variations only extending over sections of the square, as per the photo on the left. The entire design was machine stitched from the back, then the top layer was cut away from the front to reveal the pale blue background layer. Further lines of stitching were added from the front and further layers of fabric cut away after each new row of stitching, until all the layers had been revealed. This gave a pleasing effect with interesting colour changes occurring across the piece, as shown on the right.