Appliquérs! Have you heard of back-basting hand appliqué? Other terms for it are template-free or no-template appliqué. Whatever you call it, there's no faster way to get to the stitching! The pattern is traced only once, onto the back of the background fabric.

This method is not new, but may have been flying along under the radar for a lot of appliqué fans. Besides eliminating several steps in preparation and placement, the pieces can't shift and are very accurately sewn. No more do-overs!

I've developed this kit, complete with pattern, instructions, and all of the materials you'll need to become introduced to back-basting preparation. For best overall results, some hand appliqué experience is helpful.

Kit includes: Heart & Flower block pattern, illustrated instructions, guide to points and notches, 10" background fabric square, fabrics for appliqués, basting and appliqué needles, and basting and appliqué threads. Kit makes one 9" Heart & Flower block. Colors similar to those shown.

Also needed: scissors, pins, and a marking implement. (I use the blue water-erasable marking pen, shown below).