I'm had this picture since I was a child and now I'm going to work it. What I would like to know is are the horses cut out complete then the bodies put on top or are they all cut around and butted up against to each other. As all I have is the photo no instructions I'm a bit stuck any advice?

merlejane...Wow! you are truly industrious if you are going to hand applique this picture. I might start with the full shapes & overlay, trimming away parts- to eliminate bulk- as I baste others into place. I think you want to work from the back forward to give depth. Good luck with your project.
If this is machine embroidery, the spplique steps are already decided for you in the design..just follow the instructions.