Bright Ideas Design Co.

Herky Jerky Quilt Designs and Wearable Art!

What is Herky Jerky Appliqué?  and then, How do I do it?  The good news is that Herky Jerky Appliqué is not Rocket Science.  I call Herky Jerky the stitching technique, or random sequence of scribble stitching, used to finish off the fabric edges of simple fusible appliqué.  (rather than satin stitching or button hole stitching around your appliqué pieces, try Herky Jerky stitching!) 

To Herky Jerky stitch, you need to attach a darning foot to your sewing machine and drop the feed dogs down (similar to setting up for free motion quilting).  I use black thread throughout most of my work.  Next important thing to know is that if you are stitching blocks for quilts, you need to add a tear away stabilizer under your block.  Stitching through a sweatshirt?  No stabilizer needed.  Start out stitching along the edge of one of your appliqué pieces.  The motion is and is not like free motion quilting.  Yes, we are free to go anywhere, but you will soon realize the space that you are stitching within is about 1/4" inch on and off of your appliqué piece.  . .therefore, this is a PETITE finger free motion stitch.  (leave the shoulder action behind!)   We scribble with the needle to make circles, triangles, loop - de - loops and YES, you should be crossing over your stitching (another difference from typical free motion quilting)  Travel around the appliqué pieces and finish stitching all of the pieces without the hassle of starting and stopping at each piece, and not needing the hassles of perfect satin stitched corners. 

Here's the most important thing to know that I get asked about all of the time.  Sad as it may seem, your stitching won't look like mine.  As you practice, your stitching will change as you develop a rhythm between your finger motion and your needle speed.  (kind of like even though we could both get the same hair perm, I just know I'll end up way curlier than you) . . . .we are not alike. . . and that's the wonderful thing!  Coffee and sleep patterns also may alter your Herky Jerky stitching skills.

I get many of my design inspirations from Bible Verses.  I love designing out flowers, and other quirky shapes.  Thanks for support the stained glass Leaves project behind my wildest imagination.  Please, please, please, take the time looking over the designs in the catalog and if you have any questions, feel free to email me! 

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