In December 2020, the Bald Eagle was added to The FLOCK.
The piecing for the Bald Eagle is fairly standard stuff, as FLOCK blocks go. But one of the applique pieces - the eye - creates some unique challenges.
It's small, narrow and has inner and outer edges that can create a unique challenge.
On December 28, 2020, I recorded a Zoom meeting what included a demo of the machine applique eye.
A few additional thoughts to add to the video content:
- I rarely use hand controls or thread cutter when I'm piecing or securing applique by machine. I know this makes me a bit of a weird bird. I find using the foot pedal gives me better control over stitch placement and sewing speed.
- A reminder, for my machine, I find that blanket stitch, with length and width set at 1.5 works best for most of the machine applique for FLOCK blocks. These are my preferences based on my familiarity with my machine and its stitches, and lots of experimenting. You may wish to test stitch length and width as well as your preferred stitch type to find what works best for you and your machine.
- After the demo, a question came up about whether I use stabilizer for the applique. Personally, I don't. Perhaps I am too anxious to finish the block! I can definitely see where stabilizing the fabric may avoid potentially damaging applique mishaps. If you already have a favorite stabilizer product, I recommend that you test it on scrap before moving to the pre-cut block pieces, some of them very small and difficult to replace. If you don't have a stabilizer that you like, I highly recommend Face-it Soft by Lazy Girl Designs. Each 1-yard pack includes detailed instructions - just fuse a little bit to the back of your block where the applique will go and that should be just enough added body to support the applique stitches. I use it ALL the time for a variety of projects. It adds body without adding stiffness or bulk. Here is an example (scroll down a bit) of how I used it to add body for hand embroidery to the 2020 Pin cushion project.
