Fabric Appliqué Pictures for Decorating

Video class

This video is for members

Join Lulu Ferris to watch the complete class and sew along at your own pace.

What you’ll make

Create framed fabric appliqué portraits of Popeye, a sailor-inspired monkey, and Frida, a monkey wearing a flower crown.

Layer fabric shapes, stitched outlines, trims, and drawn facial details on a fabric backing. The sample uses a frame measuring approximately 24 × 30 cm.

The downloadable templates provide the shapes, while your fabric scraps determine the colors and character of each portrait.

What you’ll learn in this class

Transfer appliqué shapes with double-sided fusible web.
Plan the order of overlapping faces, ears, and accessories.
Test and sew a close zigzag along straight and curved edges.
Pivot with the needle down around small curves and corners.
Add trim and permanent fabric-marker details.

Fabric and supplies

Use a base fabric, assorted scraps, and permanent double-sided fusible web. Colored thread and an erasable marker support the appliqué work.

Cord, ribbon, fringe, or pom-pom trim can finish the composition. Water-soluble fabric glue is optional, and a permanent fabric marker adds the faces.

Make it your own

Make either monkey or the pair, vary the fabric combinations, and arrange Frida’s flowers as a headband or crown. The sailor hat can use contrasting fabrics.

Leave room for a child’s name, or reuse the motifs on a towel, T-shirt, or bib. Permanent fusible web allows a no-sew version, although stitching adds definition.

Size and scale

The sample fits an approximately 24 × 30 cm frame. Cut the base fabric slightly larger than the frame backing so it can be mounted neatly.

The template can be enlarged. If you reduce it, some small pieces may become difficult to outline with stitching.

The video class includes downloadable templates for cutting the monkey appliqué pieces.

Pattern & materials

Patterns are included with membership

Active members can download every available PDF and materials list.