Messy Ribbon Reverse Applique…TEES!

A couple of years ago I shared an idea to use scraps of trims and whatnot to do a Messy Ribbon Reverse Applique for my spring holiday decorating.

And then a few days ago I used the technique to decorate my baby for spring

She liked it so much, it seemed I should share it.  So let’s make a Messy Ribbon Reverse Applique Tee…Any image with a large open space will work well:  shamrocks, eggs, sheep, flowers, rainbows.  Really, anything. 
Trace your image onto your tee in the desired location (this is great if you have a stain you need to cover up…)Cut the image out of the teeCut square of interfacing so that the cut-out will easily fit within itLay strips of trimmings: ric-rac, ribbons, selvage edges, etc on the interfacing.  Iron to secure.  I like to layer my trimmings, so after ironing down the first layer, I’ll add another layer that I just have to hold in place and adjust during the next step.On your sewing machine, sew diagonal, parallel lines across the be-trimmed interfacing.  Place your trimming square inside the shirt, and figure out the best placement.  Pin in place.  I didn’t, but I’m a rebel, Dotty.  Also lazy.  Sew along the raw edge of the image, securing the trimming square.  When sewing with knits, you want to use a stretch/jersey needle.  A walking foot is also super helpful, if you have it.Outline your image in embroidery flossAdd a word or any other extra sumthun-sumthuns for detailingAnd lucky, you! You’re done! 
To see the original Messy Ribbon Reverse Applique tutorial, click the button below: