I don't use my machine either! I put the appliques on once everything else is done and fitted, so no-way would it fit even if I wanted it too!!!! I usually glue the appliques on first, then hand sew them, the glue just stops them moving about, as they can be a little tricksy with just pins. I usually cut away the tulle, but if you really want to keep the background tulle, then maybe as long as there is enough splits in it, it wouldn't stop the stretch too much. The bodice of the tutu picture I posted was totally covered in non-stretch lace, but because it was all small pieces, the stretch was still good.