Stewart Merrett's use of colour and image adds a new dimension to the art of applique in this book. With the emphasis on the simplicity of the basic techniques, the author demonstrates how anyone with even modest sewing machine skills can make attractive and colourful pieces. Using step-by-step photographs in a how-to-do-it section, this book shows readers how to create images by cutting out fabrics and securing them with adhesive and satin stitching. The author uses examples of his work to illustrate the techniques, with easy to follow drawings and specially selected applique pieces. Taking his inspiration from nature, he demonstrates how to create fabric pictures of fruit, flowers and plants, birds and fish and, with a humorous touch, includes a colourful chapter on showbiz using a variety of vibrant colourful fabrics in ingenious ways.