Problem: Article: If you're going into a situation where you're likely to disagree, or where hot button topics may be brought up, prepare statements that won't spark controversy. At things like work events, for example, it's often best to keep opinions on sensitive issues to yourself. Try to think of some casual comments to make instead of discussing politics.  For example, you're meeting with co-workers after a recent election. The election will certainly be a topic of discussion, but try to think of more neutral things to discuss. Bring up, say, a ballot that passed without much resistance instead of a heated race for senator. Remember also that it is best to avoid talking about politics or other sensitive subjects with co-workers. You can also try directing the conversation elsewhere. You can talk about traffic on Election Day and then try to steer the conversation to a general discussion about the morning commute. In certain places, you may want to avoid politics altogether. If you're going to a family dinner where you know you disagree with others, for example, try not to bring up heated political issues. Talk about what's going on with family members instead and leave politics out of the discussion.  However, while you can try to avoid a topic like politics, remember it's okay to plainly say that you don’t want to discuss it. You can do so in a tactful way, and then change the subject if things get heated. For example, say something like, "I don't wish to talk about this topic at this time." Religion is another sensitive issue. At professional settings, or even family events, it's often best not to bring it up. Try to steer the conversation away from topics regarding religion, especially current events. These issues are deeply personal and people may have trouble not taking opinions as a personal slight.  However, close friends and family members may disagree with you. You also may disagree with your spouse on topics like religion. You should discuss major issues with those you are close to, but remember you may not always agree. It may be important for close friends and family members to know your opinion, especially if the issue may come up. If you're an atheist, for example, it's important to let people know so they don't invite you to church or push their religion on you. You can, however, agree to disagree at times. Keep in mind that this will not be a good idea in all situations. For example, it is a good idea for your significant other to know these things about you, but a cousin or grandparent probably does not need this much information. Try to avoid the topic with anyone who you do not think will be tolerant of your views. For example, if your aunt invites you to mass on Christmas, you can say something like, "Thank you for the invitation to go to mass Aunt Lilly, but I will have to respectfully decline." There is no need for you to explain your reason and doing so may lead to conflict. Keep it simple and respectful.
Summary: Prepare non-controversial statements. Limit conversations about sensitive political issues. Refrain from discussing religion at times.

In one sentence, describe what the following article is about: Appliqué is a method of design where one pattern is sewn top of another. You can buy applique templates from a craft store if you don't want to design your own. You can also find patterns in quilting books. If you use a quilt pattern, make sure you resize it when copying so that it fits your greeting card.   To make a paper appliqué card, you will need the following:  One 4.25 by 5.5 inches (10.8 cm × 14.0 cm) card blank Colored cardstock Decorative paper A fine-tip black marker Glue Scissors A ruler A pencil and eraser What kind of card are you making? If you're making a birthday card, you might consider making a card with a cake, or party hats. Try to customize the card to reflect the interests of who you are giving it to.   Make a space scene with astronauts and planets, or make a card with cars and a racetrack. Make a card with snowmen for Christmas, turkeys for Thanksgiving, or clovers for St. Patrick's Day.  Your only limit is your imagination. Pick three different patterns for your card. You'll need a pattern for the appliqué pieces, a pattern for the background, and a pattern for the card mat.  Select a variety of solid colors and patterns. Depending on the complexity of your design, you may want to choose more than three types of decorative paper.  Whatever you decide to go with, make sure all the colors and patterns match. For example, if you're making an underwater scene, pick a variety of blues for your solid colors. Choose patterns that mimic waves or fish scales. If you're following a template, trace the shapes on the back of the your decorative paper. If you're drawing your own shapes, draw them lightly in pencil on the back of the decorative paper. Once you're happy with the designs, cut out the shapes. Since you're working with paper, you won't actually be sewing anything. To give it an authentic appliqué look, take your fine-tip marker and add stitch marks around the border of the shapes. Choose a solid color for your card mat and cut it a little smaller than your card blank. It should almost cover the entire front of the card, but you should still see a little white border.  To make the background, take a patterned piece of decorative paper and cut it to about 5 by 3.75 inches (12.7 cm × 9.5 cm). Using your fine-tip marker, add stitch marks to the background pattern.  Glue the mat to the card. Remember to leave a small border of white from the card blank. Then, glue the background to the card mat. Once the card mat and the background are glued to the card blank, start arranging your shapes to build a scene. Take some time to make sure you have everything arranged where you want it.  If you find that you need to add more shapes to flesh out your scene, grab more decorative paper and start cutting. Don't forget to add the stitch marks! Once everything is to your liking, glue your shapes down.
Summary:
Gather your supplies. Think of a design for your card. Choose your patterns. Cut out your shapes. Add the stitch marks. Make the card mat and the background. Arrange your scene.