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appliqué

Video 13: How to Prepare Appliqué Shapes with Freezer Paper

Use freezer paper as a temporary template to turn and press fabric edges for appliqué. Follow the glue-stick preparation sequence or try a starch-assisted variation.

By ThatPainter Team 2 min read
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Freezer paper helps hold fabric in shape while you turn its edges under for appliqué. In this preparation method, place the paper template shiny side up against the wrong side of the fabric, fold the fabric edges over the template, and press them in place. The prepared shape can then be appliquéd by hand or machine.

What freezer paper does in appliqué prep

The paper serves as a temporary template and support while you shape the fabric. Its shiny coating can temporarily adhere to fabric when pressed with a warm iron. Keep the template in place as you fold and press the fabric edges around it; remove it when the shape is ready for stitching.

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Gather the materials

  • Freezer paper and an appliqué pattern
  • A pen or pencil for tracing
  • Fabric for the appliqué shape
  • A water-soluble glue stick
  • Sharp-tip scissors
  • An iron

The written method also specifies a 3/16-inch seam allowance around each shape. Starch and a small paintbrush are optional tools for a different, starch-assisted edge-turning workflow.

Prepare the shape with the glue-stick method

  1. Trace and cut the template. Trace the pattern onto freezer paper and cut out the paper shapes.
  2. Position the template. Apply a small amount of water-soluble glue to the dull side of the paper. Place it shiny side up against the wrong side of the designated fabric.
  3. Cut the fabric. Cut around the template, leaving a 3/16-inch seam allowance.
  4. Turn the edges. Fold the fabric allowance over the paper edge and press it with the iron to hold the turned edge in place. For a pointed shape, fold and press the point first, then turn and press the adjoining edge.
  5. Remove the paper and stitch. Once the fabric is shaped, remove the template and use the prepared piece for hand or machine appliqué.

How starch-based preparation differs

Some quilters use starch to help turn the fabric edge over the freezer-paper template: apply a little starch to the exposed edge, then fold and press it with an iron. This is a variation, not a required step in the glue-stick sequence. Tutorials also differ in how the template is made: you can trace a pattern by hand, or use printable freezer paper. If printing directly, Julia Wachs Designs cautions that the printable freezer paper it describes is not suitable for a laser printer.

#1 Best Overall
Nseamera Heavy Duty Freezer Paper Sheets for Quilting, Applique & Piecing - 8.5x11 Inches, 50 Sheets - Printable, Laser Cuttable Freezer Paper for Quilters
  • Perfect for Quilting and Crafting: Nseamera Freezer Paper Sheets are specially designed for quilting, applique, and other crafting projects. Simply iron for 15 seconds to attach. Ideal for creating precise templates, stencils, and patterns, these sheets make piecing and applique easier.
  • Heavy Duty and Printable: Made from heavy-duty paper, these sheets lie flat and can be used with inkjet printers. Easily print your designs, whether downloaded or custom-made, and enjoy sharp and durable results every time.
  • Laser Cuttable and Reusable: Our freezer paper is laser cuttable, allowing you to create intricate patterns with ease. The sheets are also reusable, letting you enjoy consistent performance across multiple crafting sessions.
  • Reusable and Leaves No Residue: Each sheet measures 8.5x11 inches, perfect for quilting and freezer-paper crafting techniques. After ironing and removing the freezer paper from fabric, it leaves no residue, keeping your fabric clean and ready for further use.
  • Versatile for Various Creative Uses: Beyond quilting, Nseamera Freezer Paper is perfect for stencil-making, as you can cut out shapes and use the hollowed sections for precise designs. It’s also ideal for ink transfer printing and serves as a disposable palette for paints and dyes.
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Choose a workflow for your project

The written glue-stick sequence uses adhesive to position the template, while starch-based workflows use starch during edge turning. The video demonstrates folding and pressing the fabric around the paper and notes that the prepared shapes can be stitched by hand or machine. The cited instructions do not establish one workflow as universally better; use the approach that suits your materials and preferred stitching method.

Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 2
Bestseller No. 4
Kim Diehl's Best Appliqué Freezer Paper: 50 Sheets
Kim Diehl's Best Appliqué Freezer Paper: 50 Sheets
Re-create the look of Kim Diehl's world-famous applique with ease; Flat, single-page sheets make tracing, cutting, and storage easy
$17.99
Bestseller No. 5
C&T Publishing CTP20315 70 Piece Quilter's Freezer Paper Sheets, 8.5' x 11'
C&T Publishing CTP20315 70 Piece Quilter's Freezer Paper Sheets, 8.5" x 11"
C&T Publishing Notions Quilter's Freezer Paper Sheets 8.5"x 11" 70pc; Product Dimension: 13.25"L x 0.38"W x 9.0"H
$24.98
Best Value
C&T Publishing CTP20315 70 Piece Quilter's Freezer Paper Sheets, 8.5" x 11"
  • C&T Publishing Notions Quilter's Freezer Paper Sheets 8.5"x 11" 70pc
  • C&T Publishing Notions Quilter's Freezer Paper Sheets 8.5"x 11" 70pc- Designed for piecing, appliqueing or any freezer paper quilting technique
  • Make lasting templates and patterns, stabilize fabric for printing, use with inkjet printers
  • Product Dimension: 13.25"L x 0.38"W x 9.0"H
Rank #4
Kim Diehl's Best Appliqué Freezer Paper: 50 Sheets
  • Re-create the look of Kim Diehl's world-famous applique with ease
  • Flat, single-page sheets make tracing, cutting, and storage easy
  • The 8
  • 5in x 11in sheets can be used with inkjet printers and photocopiers (not for use with laser printers or laser photocopiers)
  • See more in product description.
Rank #3
50 Pcs Heavy Duty Freezer Paper for Quilting 8.5 x 11 Inch Quilter Freezer Paper Sheets for DIY Projects Handmade Tailor Applique & Sewing Projects
  • Achieve Quilting Precision: This pack of 50 heavy duty freezer paper sheets is specifically designed for paper piecing. Create accurate and durable fabric templates to bring your most intricate designs for decorative apparel and quilted home décor to life. Each sheet measures a standard 8.5" x 11", providing ample space for your detailed patterns.
  • Economical and Planet-Friendly: Designed for reuse, this durable paper can be reheated and reapplied again and again. It’s the reliable, sustainable choice for crafters who want to minimize waste without compromising on quality.
  • Bring Your Design to Life in Minutes: It's easy! Draw your pattern on the matte side, cut it out, and position the glossy side against the fabric. A quick press with an iron is all it takes to secure it in place. We recommend handling the iron carefully for a safe and enjoyable crafting experience.
  • The Thoughtful Gift That Sparks Joy: Delight the crafter in your life with these versatile heavy duty freezer paper sheets. A dream for hand piecing, appliqué, and beyond, their durable, reusable design is a truly thoughtful and practical gift they'll be thrilled to use.
  • Easy Printing for Perfect Templates: Quickly transfer your digital designs by printing on the matte side of these sheets using an inkjet printer. For your safety and the best results, please avoid laser printers, as their high heat can damage the paper's unique coating. Once printed, the glossy side irones onto fabric for a secure hold.
Rank #2
Gypsy Quilter TGQFP811H Freezer Paper 8 1/2" x 11" Heavy Weight
  • Freezer paper is a handy tool to make fabric stencils for decorating clothing, household textiles or quilts
  • Use these blank freezer paper sheets with an Inkjet printer to transfer designs that have been created with a drawing program or downloaded from a website
  • Freezer paper is Reusable

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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