How to Iron On Appliqué

One method I use in my craft projects a good bit is iron on, no sew appliquéing. I thought I would go ahead and explain my method in detail so that as I mention it in future projects, you can refer back to these instructions. This method is easy and is very versatile. It can be used in a number of different craft projects.

When many people think of appliquéing they think of the appliqué actually being sewn on. That is one way to do it but since I am not that great at sewing I use the iron on method. You get the same effect of using an appliqué but with less effort. Some people are concerned that ironing on appliqué wouldn’t bond the appliqué to the material as strongly as sewing would, but thus far I’ve never had a problem using this method with the appliqués coming off or anything of that sort. You could always run a small stitch by hand along the appliqué if you are concerned about that.

In this appliquéing process I use an iron on adhesive (called Heat N Bond) that can be found in rolls or sheets at most craft stores. You will also need an iron, fabric, and whatever pattern you are using.

Begin by cutting your fabric to the approximate size of the pattern you are using. Iron the iron adhesive on to the wrong side of the fabric according to the manufacture’s instructions. Let it sit and cool for a few minuets before moving on to the next step.

Now, trace the pattern you are using directly on to the iron on adhesive. Cut out your pattern.

Now you are ready to iron it on! Follow the manufacture’s instructions that came with the iron adhesive to instruct you in exactly how to iron on the appliqué.

You can also create an appliqué out of printed fabric. Use fabric with a large design that you like, iron on the adhesive to the back of the fabric and then cut out the design from the fabric.

You can use this method on t-shirts, tote bags, etc. Just be creative!

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