Wendy, I checked with the designers of this pattern, Anita Goodesign, and Martha there responded with this:
When we use vinyl for the appliques we use a 12 gauge that is a medium to heavy weight vinyl. This can be find in the home décor departments or JoAnn Fabrics. You can also find it at Fabric.com and Hancock Fabrics.
We use a 75/11 embroidery needle and do not have issues with the vinyl perforating during the satin stitch..
The order in which the vinyl is placed during the stitch out is stated in the step by step tutorial.
Wendy B.
I’ve tried to sew on the vinyl and after I sew the satin stitch, the vinyl gets perforated and tears away. I’m not sure what I’m doing wrong.
Thank you,
Wendy