Explore the surrealist nature of collage by using fabric appliqué. Collage is a great way to experiment and take risks in making art. It simulates the freedom of working in a sketchbook, but once completed, it has the finesse of a completed piece. This technique can easily lend itself to abstract and pictorial imagery alike.

I will cover two different sewing techniques for appliqué, including:

• Raw edge appliqué with invisible hand-stitching

• Traditional folded edge appliqué with hemming stitch

If you know any embroidery or other decorative stitching, feel free to include it in your collage!

Materials

You will need the following materials:

• Sewing needles and/or embroidery needles

• Thimble (optional)

• Sewing pins

• Sewing thread in a neutral color, like beige (I prefer Gutermann, but any polyester sewing thread will work)

• Sharp fabric scissors

• Small, sharp snips (to trim threads)

• Fabric scraps