How do I applique a 20" dia circle of 1/2" bias strip?

[Karen G.]

I have just designed a new applique and will need to applique a 1/2 piece of bias in a 20" diameter circle. Does anyone have a good way to mark a circle that big or to insure that the piece is circular when I am done? I am sure there is a technique that I haven't used yet.

[Beverly C.]

I would try cutting a 20" circle of freezer paper and iron it to the background. Then position the bias strip on the outside edge, pin (or glue) and sew.

[Andree B.]

I would use a yard stick compas to trace that big circle, and following Beverly's suggestion, on freezer paper (if you have that wide)

Andrée

[Andree B.]

You might want to pin your background fabric to a tear away or wash away stabilizer. It makes for pretty stitch formation whatever you applique. Stabilizer will also help give the circle a crisp finish.
Blessings,
Jane

[Margo C.]

The yardstick compass is available in some quilt shops! You can use it on a regular yardstick for perfect circles up to 72"!

http://www.micromark.com/YARDSTICK-COMPASS,6560.html

[Karen G.]

Margo, I will definitely look for a yardstick compass...I was not aware of them, but I could have used one MANY times. Thanks so much, Karen

[Renata L.]

Karen, if you don't find the yardstick compass at an LQS, I picked mine up at a DIY box store and have seen them at art supply stores too (same brand as Margo showed in her entry).

[Margo C.]

I don't think the brand matters, that was just the first one that popped up in my search!

I've used mine for years, and when ever I need a large circle, it's what I reach for!

[karen f.]

If you're in a hurry there's always the old string on a pencil method.

[Karen G.]

Thanks everyone for your ideas. My yard stick compass came yesterday and I am anxious to try it.

[Karen G.]

You can use basting glue and an iron to secure the bias strip in place prior to sewing...much easier (and more accurate) than pins. (I use Elmer's Washable School Glue -- much cheaper than the "other" basting glues).

It's also a good idea to stitch down the inside edge of the bias-tape circle first, before the outside edge; that way any fullness can be eased into the outer "stretched" edge. Easing fullness toward the inner edge can create to little pleats.