Problems

You most likely need a larger needle. The larger size will open up the fabric to allow the thread through. If you don't have a larger one handy, stop by your local needlework store (JoAnn's, Michael's, quilting shop, etc.). I'm sure they'd be happy to help you find one that would work and answer any other questions you might have.

Good luck and let us know how it goes.

Joan

You will need a chenille needle. That's a large, pointed needle with a large opening to accommodate a full skein of thread.

I will add that using a full skein can be tricky to keep neat. You might want to substitute with yarn or pearl cotton.

Depending upon your fabric, even using a chenille needle might be difficult. Some fabrics just don't lend themselves to needlework. I've had stubborn projects and have been known to use pliers . . . but I don't think I would have completed an applique with this method. :~)

Dianne

diftymac wrote:

Can you give us a bit more information? It would help to know what kinds of fabric you're wanting to sew together and also what size of needle you're using.

For myself, if I want to sew heavy fabrics, I'd choose a smallish, very pointy needle. On the other hand, if the fabric is thick but not as coarse, (say, polar fleece), a tapestry needle might work best. Maybe a thimble is all you need to help the needle pierce your fabric. Maybe a larger 'bore' of needle will do the job. It could be the appliqué you want to put on is too heavy for the ground fabric. If you can give us a little more info, it will help us figure out the problem.

HTH, ;-D