When I apply my quilts, I use a method that uses spray starch and a plastic stencil material called Templar to give the motifs a crisp, clean edge. After pressing, I simply remove the Templar. Sewing is easy as the edge is already folded down.
This technique works well for leaves, flowers, circles, and many animal shapes. Does not work for intricate cutout shapes, inverted applications, or very small shapes.
supplies
- Spray ‘N Starch
- Temperate heat resistant plastic
- Cotton swabs or a stencil brush
Note: I recommend Spray ‘N Starch because some brands of spray starch can leave a thick residue on the fabric, making it too stiff to sew. I prefer the Templar brand of heat resistant plastic; other brands are too thick, making it difficult to cut a precise shape.
Step 1: Place Templar on top of the candlestick design. Trace the shape with a pencil.
Step 2: Using paper scissors, cut out the templar along the lines you just drew. Do not add a delivery margin. If the pattern is asymmetrical, mark the right side of the template.
Step 3: Place the Templar shape right side down on the back of the fabric and trace the Templar edge with a pencil. Cut outside of those lines, adding a 3/4″ lap allowance.
Stage 4: Pour some of the spray starch into a cup or saucer. Place the fabric form wrong side up on the ironing surface. Center the Templar template over the fabric shape. Using a cotton swab or stencil brush, apply spray starch to the twist below the edge of the fabric shape. Work in 3″ to 4″ sections at a time.
Step 5: Using a hot, dry iron, push the countertop up and over the Templar, trimming inside curves only if necessary. You will hear a sizzling sound, which means the spray starch is drying. You want to keep the iron in place long enough for the spray starch to dry. When you remove the sheet, the fold-down allowance should be flat. If it jumps, you haven’t allowed the iron to sit long enough.
You will need to find the “happy setting” on your iron. Every iron is different. The iron should be hot enough to dry out the spray starch, but not so hot that it warps the templar. If the templar warps, it won’t damage your iron, but you’ll have to make a new template. If there are internal stitches, please iron them first. It’s usually best to handle the outer points last.
Step 6: After all edges are flat, gently remove Templar and apply design in place.
To protect your ironing board cover from starch stains, place a layer of muslin or other waste fabric on the ironing surface. I use 1/4 yard pieces of muslin folded in half. It’s much easier and less expensive to wash these remnants than it is to replace an ironing board cover.
