Learn how to use fabric applique to add your own flair to your projects. Add a little hand stitching to create adorable one of a kind crafts. You will learn how to apply iron on applique with easy step-by-step pictures and instructions. Plus download this free tulips in a jar pattern!

Recently I shared my new envelope pillow cover tutorial. They're SUPER easy, so be sure to check it out.  Today I'm sharing the process of applying the applique to the pillows. It's pretty easy too, so let's get started!

How to applique fabric using iron-on adhesive

Supplies for fabric applique

You will need:

Pattern of what you would like to applique {You can find mine below}
Fabric - various colors, I used fat quarters for the applique and a white duck cloth for the pillow
Iron on adhesive
Scissors
Iron
Light box or window
Coordinating thread {Optional, if you'd like to add decorative stitching}

Affiliate links of supply items listed below. If you choose to make a purchase, I will receive a small percentage at no additional charge to you. 

If you'd like to try out my pattern, simply click on the image or the link below and you can print it out or download it.

Tulips in a Jar Free Pattern

Next we need to transfer the image to the iron on adhesive. You can do this using a light box if you have one, but I always just use my window. This is really hard to see, but I hope you can get the idea. I tape the pattern to the window and then tape the adhesive over it and trace away. I was about to trace the jar for this photo.

Keep in mind that the images that you trace will be a mirror to the end product. I placed my tulips with the printing facing the window because I wanted the end result to face the way I drew it. But really, since there are no words, it doesn't matter much.

Tip: Trace each piece separately so that you can easily cut out the pieces to iron on to different colors of fabric.

Iron the pattern pieces onto the fabric.

Next, cut out each piece of your applique and arrange it in place.

Piece by piece, remove the backing and iron in place. Begin with the bottom layers and work your way up. For this project, I did the jar first, then the stems, then the flowers and finally the leaves.

Lastly, I stitched around the pieces with coordinating thread. This is not necessary, but adds extra cuteness!

Have you done any applique projects? Do you have any tips you would like to add?

You may also like:

 Easy Envelope Pillows

How to Make a Drawstring Bag with fabric applique

Don't forget to pin it!!