I use heat-n-bond or wonder-under (a two sided fusible product). I read about this somewhere and it seems to work pretty well. I also wash all the fabrics I am going to use for applique before I begin using them in a project.

I used Steam-a-Seam 2 lite on the back of the applique fabric. You have to cut your pieces in the correct shape first, do the placement stitch,remove hoop from machine but do NOT unhoop whatever it is your are appliquing on,then place fabric on the placement line, lightly touch with iron to hold in place, replace hoop and applique. This product is light & doesn't get stiff. Hope this makes sense.

I don't use anything - I just place a piece of fabric just a bit bigger than the applique design and hold it firmly with my hands whilst the machine is sewing. I'll add a picture of one of my Antique Santas to show you. I've never had any issues doing it this way. But, I must say I've been doing appliques for qite a long time and have perfected my technique! Love and blessings Chris

Here is another one of my Santas. Love Chris

THANKS CHRIS GOOD TO KNOW

Thank you for your answers everyone!

Love your work Chris!

Wash (or use a steam-iron) both the item you stitch on and the applique fabric beforehand. I don't like to fuse the two (with steam-a-seam or some other brand) when I'm working on toweling, that gives a very uneven surface.

Hi Tania, I have used spray adhesive or freezer paper with great results.

I put an iron on stabilizer on my applique fabric to thicken up the fabric and keep it flat.