Crochet Applique Tutorial - Iron on edition
Note - This blog post contains affiliate links
A few weeks ago I had a little idea when I was brainstorming new items to bring to summer markets. I remembered how back in middle school I used to love to make fabric plushies, and would add appliques by using an iron-on adhesive. That’s when it popped in my head… iron-on crochet appliques on tees, upcycled clothes, bags, anything really! I posted the process on Instagram and y’all LOVED it. There’s a quick video tutorial posted on IG reels, but if you’re looking for something a bit more in-depth and with links, this is the place for you.
Materials
The supply this for this project is pretty short! But I’ll go ahead and lay out every little thing I used.
Bare Minimum
Heat N’ Bond Ultra Hold - The star of the show! I’ve been using this adhesive for years, it’s designed to form a permanent bond without the need for any sewing and is machine washable.
Iron and Ironing Board - I recommend you use a steam iron for this project. Using steam helps distribute the heat more evenly, which is especially needed if you’re using a thicker yarn. For ironing boards, I love my tabletop ironing board, such an essential for apartments or small space living in general.
Yarn/Applique - My go-to yarn for these projects is Hobbii Twister. It’s a sport-weight, cotton-acrylic blend that’s super durable, soft, and of great quality overall. If you’re looking for the pattern of the exact letters I used, you can find it here!
Other Supplies
Tapestry Needles - to weave in ends
Scissors - My favorite snips
Measuring tape - To help with centering
Crochet Hooks - These are by far my favorite crochet hooks, they are about the same length as the width of my palm, and the flat handle shape never tires/cramps my hands. I’ve found this shape to be by far the most ergonomic for me! I used the 2.5mm size for this project
Overview
This project can be divided up into 3 parts
Make the thing that you want to iron on - whether that’s letters or other cute appliques
Apply the adhesive and cut out to shape
Remove backing and iron into place!
1. MAKE YOUR APPLIQUE
This is where you let your imagination run wild! You can crochet whatever designs come to mind but I recommend sticking to a lightweight yarn in a cotton or cotton/synthetic blend material. These fibers are heat resistant, easy to care for, and won’t shrink in the wash. Remember, when ironing your appliques into place, the thicker your applique the more difficult it will be to adhere it properly.
To make the letters, I used the yarn, pattern, and crochet hook listed above. Make sure to weave in your ends once you’re done!
2. APPLY HEAT N BOND & CUT TO SHAPE
Now it’s time to turn that applique you made into an iron-on patch. Go ahead and break out your iron and ironing board and set it to a high/steam temp.
Start by giving your applique a thorough steam and press so it lays nice and flat. Give the instructions on the heat n bond a read and turn your iron down to a medium/non-steam heat. I’ve found that the easiest way to prep several appliques at the same time is to cut the heat n bond into strips. Place your applique face down on the ironing board and lay the heat n bond on top with the adhesive facing down. Iron over the paper until you see ripples start to form, this means that the adhesive has melted into place. Hot tip! No need to press down hard while ironing, keeping the pressure light will prevent the adhesive from melting onto your ironing board cover. Give the paper a minute to cool down and set, then flip over and trim the paper to shape. The scissors I linked up above have a fine tip and are perfect for easily trimming around/into curves and corners
3. IRON INTO PLACE
Lay out whatever it is that you're placing your appliques onto, for me that’s usually t-shirts. Turn your iron back onto a high/steam setting and give your t-shirt (or whatever you're using) a steam/press. At this point, I like to lay out a measuring tape and center my design. I’ve used tons of measuring tapes in my years of sewing and crochet/knitting and if there’s one simple upgrade you can make, it’s a retractable soft tape measurement.
Once you’re happy with your layout, peel the backing off and lay things out again. This is your final chance to check the placement!
Hold the iron over each letter for 2-3 seconds, use steam to help distribute the heat through the applique. Once you’ve ironed each letter, let cool for 10-15 seconds and then pull at the edges of each letter. It should be firmly in place. If it moves/peels at all, re-apply heat and hold for longer over each letter, continuing to use steam. Repeat until firmly in place.
I can’t wait to see what y’all create with this tutorial! Please be sure to tag me on IG (@theyarnbitch) so I can see and share what you create - xo Dani
Care Instructions
Review the care instructions for the yarn, adhesive, and item that you’re using. For the t-shirts I made, the yarn, shirts, and adhesive are all machine washable! For drying I recommend air-drying or tumble dry low to prevent the heat from re-melting the adhesive. If you use a yarn/item that is not washing machine safe, you will need to hand wash.
FAQ
Q: Can I use acrylic yarn?
A: Yes! Acrylic is generally a great option, its heat resistant, doesn’t felt, and, best of all, readily available and affordable. Again, I recommend sticking to a fingering or sport weight so it doesn’t get too bulky
Q: My appliques won’t adhere properly! What can I do?
A: If your applique is bulky, it likely isn’t adhering because it’s too thick for the heat to get through! To help with this, iron from the inside of the shirt so you’re applying the heat closer to the adhesive.
