Using the "frayed" technique.

So, if you remember, we left off on our rick rack tutorial with promises of finishing our design using the frayed technique. 

I know I'm in the minority when I say "frayed" but "raggy" reminds me of scruffy or ragged, or "on the rag." Hey, that's just how my mind works. So, I go with frayed instead.

And we are halfway done on our applique.

Next is to get that cute frayed look.

Your file will stitch a placement line.

You will need to cover that line with some fabric. I choose two layers of the same. 

You have several options:

• layers of same fabric
• layers of different fabric
• layer of flannel topped with layer of fabric
• anything else that strikes your fancy depending on the design

Whatever you choose, just make sure you've read your machine's instructions on how many layers are possible to embroider through on your specific machine. They are all different!

After I added the fabric, my tackdown line stitched. This is a great thick tackdown line!

Also, I will sometimes cut out some Heat H Bond Light to cover the back of the area of fabric (trace placement line, trace HNBL, secure to back of fabric, line up over placement line) to secure it for many washings to come!

Loosely trim your fabric.

Continue with the design.

Adding more.....

Until you are done!

Now, hopefully you loosely trimmed the area around the tackdowns.

Go back and loosen the fibers of your fabric either using your fingernails or back of scissors (if you don't have that gene for pretty nails) or an old credit card.

All of them!

Next, you'll want to take the lint roller to your shedding masterpiece and.....

Tada!

All done!

And very easy to do!

Frayed Rick Rack Heart Flower Trio

Now, I'll let you in on a little secret.......

................shhhhhhhhhhhhhh.....................

.....................you can do this with almost any applique design you have!

I'm being completely serious. You can either stitch out your design using the wide satin stitch but not trimming your applique. Just think of the cute hearts you could be making with the fray! Or, you can run your tackdown stitches multiple times (usually 3) to secure your fabric and skip the satin stitch altogether!

Now, isn't it good to know I just doubled the amount of applique designs you currently have?

You're welcome.