I finished the appliqué on the center panel last week. This has sent me back into design mode as I furiously try to decide what will come next. What better time, then, to share two more sections from my current quilt project.

In this article, we take a closer look at the tools required for marking fabric for appliqué. I have two favorite marking pens plus an accessory that makes the job a whole lot easier.

Needle-turn appliqué is my favorite method of hand appliqué. I find it to be very accurate as well as flexible. But a big reason is the ease with which the patches are prepared beforehand. Here is how I prepare the patches for needle-turn appliqué.

I’m still working on my goals for 2010, but it is certain that my current quilt project will be at the top of the list. The center panel is nearing completion, so I thought it was time to reveal a couple more sections.

When it comes to glue-basting seam allowances to freezer paper, I wouldn’t want to be without this handy little tool. It grips, turns, repositions, lifts, smooths and creases. But best of all, it keeps the glue from getting all over your fingers!

Over the next months, I’ll be sharing my progress as I work on my current quilt project. I started the quilt in June 2009 and have made a fair bit of progress so far. Inspired by the words of John 15, the quilt will be a hand appliqued representation of vines, branches and fruit. This article will introduce my quilt, its theme, color scheme, and layout, and show you the first section in the center panel.