Applique Work

Applique Work is ornamental needlework in which pieces or patch of fabric in different shapes and patterns are sewn or stuck onto a larger piece to form a picture or pattern. It is commonly used as decoration, especially on garments. The technique is accomplished either by hand stitching or machine. Appliqué is commonly practised with textiles, but the term may be applied to similar techniques used on different materials. In the context of ceramics, for example, an appliqué is a separate piece of clay added to the primary work, generally for the purpose of decoration.

To give a fabric distinct yet cohesive look, appliqué work is used for decoration. This fabric is ornamented with beads and sequins to give it a designer look. Appliqué has got its roots from French culture which means something applied or a thing that has been applied. Appliqué work actually originated where the clothes were ripped and needed fixing to appear decent and classic.

Craftsmen used to sew a different fabrics or the same fabric beneath the ripped area of the garment to make the clothes wearable. This handy technique later came to be known as patchwork. Earlier, it was used by the poor who did not have enough money to buy new clothes and had to mend their torn pieces of garments. Later, patchwork came into fashion and was easily accepted by mainstream fashion.