"Auntie" Reverse Applique Sweatshirt

I've seen these reverse applique sweatshirts all over the internet for the last year and finally decided to try it myself.

Here's how I did it:

I first started with a blank sweatshirt that I had in my closet.

I then created letter stencils, printed and cut them out.

I traced the letters on my sweatshirt using a washable/air marker.

I used the Fabany brand from Joann for this, but there are many options on Amazon.

I ironed on feather weight interfacing to the back of a Calico Keepsake fabric quarter and pinned it to the inside of the sweatshirt.

It is important that the fabric is facing the correct direction when pinning.

You don't want to sew this backwards.

I then adjusted the settings on my sewing machine to a straight stitch and about a tension 4.

I proceeded to sew the outline of the letters.

I did use the all purpose sewing foot however, I have seen others use the darning foot/free motion foot and it work great for them.

The issue I had most with this part of the process was precision.

It was difficult moving the foot around the angles of the letters.

To ease this a bit, I cut the stitch as often as possible.

After the letters were outlined sewn, I cut out the middles of each letter to expose the fabric underneath.

Though it is not a necessary step, I rinsed the entire sweatshirt in cool water to remove any left over marker that was not covered by the stitching.

And that's it!

I wore this as a casual look with cargo pants and sneakers. You could always make this a more dressed up look depending on your personal styling.

Laundry tips:

I laundered this piece in warm water with light colors. I do not recommend chlorine bleaching because the cotton applique will turn its color. You can tumble dry as usual, however I've seen tips online that recommend air drying or low tumble drying the sweatshirt.

I created this "Auntie" sweatshirt because my nephews like to call me "Rich Auntie." Although our definitions of rich are different, I still appreciate their acknowledgment. So, shout-out to them for keeping me motivated.

Until next time,