Monogram Applique with Name Embroidery

I recently made this backpack for my nephew using the Child's Drawstring Backpack Pattern.  The initial and name on the pocket got such rave reviews that I thought I would share with you how to make a pocket like this these two.  You do not need an embroidery machine to make the letter applique.

Materials/Supplies

• Embroidery hoop
• Cotton fabric for pocket
• Micro fleece fabric for applique letter
• Water soluble stabilizer
• Thread & sewing machine
• Scissors
• If you are making it without an embroidery machine, print a large copy of whichever letter you wish to applique.

Directions

1. Begin by placing the outer hoop of the embroidery hoop down.
2. Layer the cotton on top of the hoop with the right side up.
3. Layer the fleece on top of the cotton with the right side up.
4. Layer the stabilizer on top of the fleece. (If you are not using an embroidery machine, layer the letter printout)
5. Hoop all layers together.
6. Embroider the letter.  (If not using an embroidery machine, stitch in a zigzag stitch with an extremely short stitch length all the way around the letter)
7. Cut away the excess fleece.
8. Embroider the name.
9. Remove the hoop and the stabilizer--my stabilizer mostly tears away, then I use water to remove any remnants.  Cut to desired size and use the envelope method to make the pocket.