Place a sheet of paper underneath the item you want to machine embroidery. This keeps the fabric from getting jammed down into the sewing plate of the machine. I use typing paper, junk mail, the kids homework (watch out for anything with crayon on it), but not newsprint (too thin and the ink gets on the fabric). If you use the paper, you won’t have to glue the applique down or use fusible webbing. Practice a bit and you will learn how to hold the applique from moving around. The paper helps this.

As you are appliqueing use a zigzag stitch where the zigs and zags just barely touch each other or are a little father apart. If you use a tight satin stitch, the thread will get caught down into the sewing plate. Try making a sample of both and see which one you like the best.

Also, use a color of thread that is a little darker that what you are appliqueing. If you use a thread that is lighter, the applique will look faded. A slightly darker thread will make the applique pop.

Happy sewing!
Sandra