Thanks for posting this, I have always preferred the hand stitching to machine. It's quite easy and I feel looks better. I anchor the lining and facing on the shoulder and side seams. It looks very professional ! Yes I am old school :)

I have used this embellishment often and love them. I do use the nylon invisible snaps for such occasions!
For a lighter weight flower I use a sheer synthetic fabric and instead of folding over the bias strip I leave a raw edge or a burned edge. I also add a few separate pedals to the flowers.

I've mastered the straight cut fabrics for the narrow hem. The bias cut narrow hems I'm having troubles with. Any Ideas how to make that job easier? Thanks bunches, Christine