Appliqué has always been one of those quilting techniques that instantly adds personality to a project. Whether it’s delicate floral motifs, seasonal designs, or bold graphic shapes layered onto a quilt block, appliqué gives quilters the freedom to turn fabric into artwork.
If you’ve ever wanted to improve your appliqué skills—or simply explore the many different methods available—Sulky’s Secrets to Successful Appliqué is a book packed with inspiration, practical tips, and plenty of project ideas.
Created by Joyce Drexler, a nationally recognized machine embroidery expert and creative director for Sulky of America, this book dives deep into the many techniques used to create beautiful appliqué designs.
A Technique Guide and Project Book in One
One of the strengths of Sulky’s Secrets to Successful Appliqué is that it doesn’t focus on just one method. Instead, it introduces readers to multiple appliqué techniques, making it a versatile guide for quilters, sewists, and fabric artists.
Inside the book you’ll find guidance on techniques including:
- Satin stitch appliqué
- Blanket stitch appliqué
- Fusible appliqué
- Raw edge appliqué
- Cut-work embroidery
- Puffy foam appliqué
- Invisible appliqué techniques
- Decorative thread work
Each technique offers a slightly different look and texture, allowing makers to experiment with styles that range from traditional to highly decorative.
Over 40 Projects to Try
This isn’t just a technique manual—it’s also a project book.
The book includes more than 40 projects and full-size patterns, which makes it ideal for readers who learn best by actually creating something. The projects range from seasonal designs to decorative quilt blocks and wall hangings, offering ideas that can easily be adapted into quilts, pillows, or home décor pieces.
Because many appliqué designs are block-based, the patterns can also be incorporated into larger quilt layouts.
Helpful Step-by-Step Photos
Learning a technique like appliqué is much easier when you can see exactly how the process works. The book includes step-by-step color photographs, which help guide readers through the construction and stitching process.
These visuals are particularly helpful for quilters who are new to appliqué and want to build confidence with the technique.
Along the way, readers also pick up useful tips about:
- choosing thread colors
- stabilizing fabric
- improving stitch quality
- achieving clean edges and professional
