Applique - Definition and Overview

Applique (or appliqué) is a technique in which pieces of fabric are sewn onto a foundation piece of fabric to create designs. It is particularly suitable for work which is to be seen from a distance, e.g., Banner-making.

A famous example of applique is the Hastings Embroidery whose designs are appliqued onto the backing fabric using a variety of embroidery stitches.

Applique is also used extensively in quilting. "Dresden Plate" and "Sunbonnet Sue" are just two examples of well-known quilt blocks that use both patchwork and applique to construct.

Baltimore album quilts and Amish are famous examples of applique quilts due to the quality of their designs.

Types of Applique

• Broderie perse
• San Blas applique