Very nice!
I would look stuff up on the internet, but not actually try to sew out something to figure out an answer to someone's question. You should get a bunch of flowers for the great job and the extra mile you went!
I downloaded it too and had a look. I would not dare stitch the leaves without some fabric on top first, maybe the colour of the towel, and treat it as a double appliqué.
Nice work!
sllakin was kind enough to find the link for the applique instructions. I have added it here
Thank you! I have wondered for ages how to use these, but did not want to ask...