reverse applique dots

This post is a tutorial for a careful technique, reverse applique dots. Two three inch squares are layered, basted together, and marked with a circle outline. A spool of thread makes a good template. The center of the circle needs to be removed with very sharp embroidery scissors. Then make several tiny clips that just touch the drawn line. Thread the needle with silk applique thread. Silk thread is very strong, does not knot, and is nearly invisible once stitched.
The above photo shows how the needle itself is used to create the curves. If you use the side of the needle rather than your fingers to manipulate the cloth, you will get a neater curve. Firmly hold the two fabrics together with one hand, and then stitch the top fabric to the lower fabric with an invisible hem stitch. It's best to just relax with these dots, and work slowly and carefully. I'd say that each one takes at least ten minutes to make, perhaps more. When finished, bring the thread to the back of your work and make a knot before cutting the thread. At this time I also remove the excess bottom layer of fabric. This has become one of my favourite techniques. The dots give a strong graphic with minimalist strength. To make them takes practice, but there is a satisfaction in doing skillful work. Massed, the hand made dots are very powerful. Each unique. All the same.