Appliqué Options
An heirloom finish with dimension, texture and softness.Fabric layered onto your piece and finished with a satin border — fonts, fabrics and everything in between. If you're not sure what pairs best, please reach out — we're always happy to help.
A timeless decorative technique with deep roots in Southern and heirloom children's clothing — refined for the way you'll dress your little one.
Appliqué is the art of layering a piece of fabric onto a garment and securing it with a decorative stitch — most often a tight, glossy satin border. The result is a raised, textured design that catches light differently than flat embroidery and feels wonderfully soft against the skin.
It's one of the oldest forms of decorative needlework, and for good reason: it lets us bring color, pattern and personality to a piece without the density of solid thread coverage.
- Softer against the skin — less thread means more give and less itch, perfect for newborns and toddlers.
- Beautiful on larger designs — letters and motifs over an inch tall come alive with fabric.
- Mix and match — pair a Liberty of London print with a coordinating satin border for an heirloom look.
- Ideal pairings — pillows, totes, backpacks, bubbles, burp cloths and quilts.
Styles chosen because their letterforms hold fabric beautifully and finish cleanly with a satin border. Available as full names or monograms. Hover any sample to see it up close.

Antique

Blair

Chachi

Dottie

Fishtail

Narrow Round

Walter
Have a specific font in mind? Let us know — we may already have it, and we're always happy to take a look.
Choose a solid for a clean, classic look — or one of our Liberty of London florals for something truly special.
Crisp solid cottons, color-matched to coordinate with your thread choice. A few favorites below — we can match nearly any shade.
Choose "Solid Color to Match Thread" at checkout and we'll pair it perfectly.
Our hand-picked collection of Liberty of London Tana Lawn prints — buttery soft, richly detailed and truly heirloom-worthy. Seasonal prints rotate, so grab your favorite while it's here. Hover any swatch to see it up close.

Betsy Ann

Betsy Berry Neon Delight

Poppy & Daisy Metallic

Betsy Neon Kiss

Betsy Metallic

Betsy Metallic Pink

Betsy Metallic Turquoise

Betsy Strawberry Lemonade

Betsy Q

Betsy Neon Bloom

Betsy Neon Violet

Betsy Blush

Michelle

Poppy & Daisy Neon

Betsy Mist

Sadie Rose

Fruit Punch
Looking for something specific — or have your own fabric? Contact us. We love a custom request.
What's the difference between appliqué and embroidery?
Embroidery uses only thread to create the design — every letter or motif is stitched directly onto the fabric.
Appliqué adds a piece of fabric on top, which is then secured with a decorative stitch, usually a satin or zigzag. The result is softer, more textural and uses less thread — making it ideal for larger designs and gentler against baby skin.
What is your turnaround time?
Our current turnaround time for personalized orders is approximately 4 weeks before shipping, unless otherwise noted on the product page. Custom fabric requests may add a few days, and carrier transit time is additional.
If you have a deadline, please reach out before ordering and we'll let you know what's possible.
How do I choose my font and fabric?
You'll select your appliqué font and fabric directly on the product page when you add the item to your cart, along with your thread color and any notes.
Not sure what pairs best? Choose "Melissa's Choice" and we'll design something beautiful — or send us a message first.
Can I see a proof before you stitch?
Proofs are not automatically included with every personalized order, but a digital mockup can be added to eligible orders for a small additional fee.
Please note that adding a proof may extend your turnaround time — production cannot begin until your proof has been approved.
How should I care for appliqué pieces?
Wash inside-out in cold water on a gentle cycle. Tumble dry on low or lay flat to preserve the fabric's softness. Avoid bleach and fabric softener.
With proper care, appliqué stays beautiful through years of wear — and washes.
Are appliqué items returnable?
Because every piece is made to order, appliqué is final sale. If there's an error on our end, we'll absolutely make it right.
You can read the full details on our Return & Exchange Policy page.
Every appliqué is hand-cut, layered and stitched with care — right here, just for your little one.
Questions about fonts, fabrics or a custom request? Email melissa@thetinyduckie.com and we'll help you choose.