Step 1:

The first step in creating a wallhanging like ours is to choose the designs you want to use. We used the applique design "Two Parrots Scene, Applique" (Hdtrb1b) for the main square, and "Tucan" (Hdtrb7) and "Two Parakeets" (Hdtrb8) in the two lower squares. We also used "Leaves corner, smaller" (Hdtrb6b) on either side of the main square.

Step 2:

Next, select your fabrics. We are using five fabrics in ours. For the binding, back, and separator bars, we have a basic black fabric. The border fabric is a rainbow silk dupioni. The main body of the wallhanging is set off by a large print tropical scene. The embroidered rectangles are a solid tropical green color, and for the applique design, we found a lightly variegated blue fabric.

Step 3:

Plan the size of each embroidered square and the cutting requirements for all off the pieces.

Step 4:

Embroider the two lower rectangle pieces.

Step 5:

For the "Two Parrots Scene, Applique" (Hdtrb1b), Start sewing the design in the center of the main rectangle. After the machine sews the outline or mark stitch for the applique, stop the machine.

Step 6:

Place the material over the outline stitch. Make sure the applique material is big enough to completely cover the outline stitch. An embroidery safe spray adhesive or Appli-Kay wonder can be very helpful in this step.

Step 7:

Start the machine. The tack-down stitch will now sew on top of the applique, securing it to the hooped fabric.

Step 8:

Next, with applique scissors, cut around the tack-down stitch, removing any fabric outside of the stitch.

Step 9:

Once the applique is trimmed, start the machine again. It will finish the design.

Step 10:

Embroider "Leaves corner, smaller" (Hdtrb6b) on the tropical scene fabric, to one side of where the main parrot square will go. Rotate the design and repeat on the opposite side.

Step 11:

Now that the embroidery is finished, you can complete the project. Piece the wallhanging. Add batting and the back panel, and quilt the layers. Bind it like you would a quilt, while adding hanging loops to the top.