Patch Applique: a creative and easy way to customize your objects

With the “do it yourself” wave, handicrafts have gained more and more followers. There are several techniques that can be used by artisans in order to produce a personalized material, according to the taste of the clientele.

Among the various techniques, one that has been gaining a lot of prominence is the so-called applique patch, thanks to its simplicity and the beautiful effect produced.

According to Vivian Pomim, author of the specialized blog “Meu Jeito, Bordados em Patch Apliquê”, the technique consists of using fabrics to decorate fabrics.

It is important to differentiate the appliqué patch, which in literal translation would be something like ‘applied patch’, from the patchwork and quilt technique.

According to Vivian, in the appliqué patch it is not necessary to use a sewing machine and the piece will be worked manually.

“Patchwork will always need a sewing machine to mend the pieces of fabric. The quilt is that contour made by the sewing machine around the finished piece. It serves to join the layers of fabric, acrylic blanket and lining”, reveals the artisan.

See in the following video a demonstration of the patch apply being done:

Where to use the technique

The specialist also reveals that any fabric that can be ironed and buttoned can be used to make the applique patch.

Vivian exemplifies the most common objects in which the technique is used and adds “The limit is your creativity.”

pillow covers;
Bath and face towels;
T-shirts;
Children clothes;
Napkin;
Tablecloths;
Cloth diapers;
Curtains.

How to patch applique step-by-step

The technique is very simple, just patience, good will and delicacy in the treatment of fabric and appliqués.

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It is necessary to have a design pattern of your choice, combine it with the fabrics, assemble the design after gluing it to the piece and finally sew everything together.

“To make a basic appliqué patch, you need fabric with different patterns, heat-sealing paper, needle, thread, iron and a lot of creativity. First, you must make a drawing on the heat-adhesive paper; that done, the iron is passed over the fabric with the paper. Once glued, the fabric is cut and sewn in a buttonhole, directly where it is to be applied. Then it’s just a case of getting married and enjoying your finished work” he concludes.

The video below shows the step by step of fabric decoration with the appliqué patch technique:

Also according to Vivian, the molds are essential for the technique to work, as they help when transferring the risk to the thermal adhesive. If the person is a good designer, he can make his own molds, making the pieces even more personalized.

Necessary materials

Vivian made a list of basic items for those who want to start in the art of patch applique:

100% cotton printed fabrics
dry iron
Heat-adhesive paper (I use the national one, I find it easier)
template with drawing
6B pencil (or any other, to transfer the scratch to the thermosticker)
Line for buttonhole (skein)
Needle (can be one with semi point)
Scissors
Fabric to apply the design

Check out some cool pattern ideas to make the applique patch:

Advantages of patch applique

One of the great advantages of appliqué patch is that it does not require a sewing machine. Another issue that makes it much easier is the fact that the haberdashery have several pieces already ready, just being necessary to apply them.

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Training makes perfect and this is Vivian’s first golden tip for anyone who wants to make not only the appliqué patch but any other craft at home. “With practice, we start to develop more ideas and get a taste for the thing”, she reflects.