Problem solved!

Today, my post is about showing how my problem was solved with not being able to use my light table or window to transfer the applique layout onto my borders.  The fabric was just too dark to see through.

To get started, photocopies were made of the applique pattern.  Since my top was made a lot bigger than the original pattern, extra parts of the border applique was added.

Pasting and cutting the photocopies together until the perfect length was made.  Then I started cutting out the applique bits.  This is part of what my stencil looks like.

Can you see blue tabs on the stem part?  I had to put them there and colour them to remind me not to cut out those parts; otherwise my stencil would just fall apart.

My top is then laid out onto my cutting table and weighted down so that it doesn't move.

The cut-out stencil is placed on top of the fabric border and secured after being lined up just so.   Those yellow circle things that you see are weights.   I will use pins to secure the stencil to the fabric also just in case the top slips a bit down towards the floor.

There is a reason why I bought these pounce notions!  They have never been used until now.  This is just the chalk version and they don't stay around too long as the chalk is too easy to brush off.  Next time I come across the version that has the pounce that is ironed off .... I will purchase it!

So, I pounced away at the the empty spaces on my stencil and then removed my paper stencil and shook out all the loose chalk.  Looks good .... well sort of!  At least, I can actually see the design on the fabric now.

Since I am very particular about my circles, I did take time to trace them.

A plastic template that has all different circle sizes is very handy.   Crayola washable markers is used for marking my circles.

Then, my stem is placed on top of the chalk line and pinned in place.

Then, the leaves are added.  All my stems, leaves and circles have been prepared in advance and all I have to do is place them on top of the chalk outline.  More pins.

Next up is the red circles.  Yep, more pins again.

All pinned in place.  Lots of pins in there.  How do I manage those pins without anything coming loose?  Basting is the next step.  Yes, a lot of time spent basting, but it is so worth it.  Someone said that glue would also work well if you want to give that a try.  I'll stick to basting with thread and needle.

Once everything on that section of border is basted in place, the next section is ready to go and all the steps are repeated, except the stencil is reversed or flipped to the left.  In other words, one side has printing on it and the backside doesn't.

There, last two sections all basted in place and ready for me to sew.

A close-up of the basting.

Tune the music for dancing because that is what I'll be doing soon!

Have a great day!

Linking to:
http://www.esthersquiltblog.com/
http://needleandthreadnetwork.blogspot.com/