I’ve had foundation paper piecing on my mind recently. I know many quilters appreciate the intricate blocks they can sew with the technique, and I’ve made projects like that (see my giraffe quilt here and my Christmas postcard here). More often than not, however, I rely on paper piecing to create blocks without using templates or specialty rulers. And because I paper piece with inexpensive newsprint, I can get great results without spending a lot of money.
All of this brings me to my latest pattern in process: Set to Spin. She’s a modern beauty all dolled up in solids, but I’m already imagining her in a collection of scrappy prints. Perhaps even some chunky large-stitch quilting? Yes, please!
Are you pro paper piecing, or do you avoid it? (Because if you’d rather not tackle a paper piecing project, I’ll take that as a challenge to change your mind!)
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I don't paper piece often - it is not my favorite method but it does come in very handy when making odd shape pieces or blocks that have a lot of points. I do have one kit that I ordered several years ago that I really need to drag it out this year and make it is beautiful but complicated - it does come with papers. When you do yours do you print a pattern out on the newsprint and then make copies or do you need to actually draw out your first pattern and then make copies - where do you get your newsprint?
ReplyDeleteI print my pattern pieces directly from a PDF onto 8.5" x 11" sheets of newsprint. I buy a ream (that is, 500 sheets) of newsprint at a time. A quick search on Amazon found a ream for just $6! I know there are many options for specialty paper, but I can't justify the cost.
DeleteIf I had a paper version of a quilt pattern, as opposed to a PDF, I would copy onto the newsprint. I would double-check that the one-inch gauge on the copies is indeed one inch, though (does that make sense?).
What a fun block! I have mixed feelings about paper piecing. I love the accuracy. I did use it to make my queen-sized pineapple log cabin. If I can find an easy way to piece traditionally, I usually prefer to so that. But I will paper piece if it is the best way to construct a block.
ReplyDeleteI agree. I wouldn't exclusively paper piece my quilt projects, especially when traditional piecing would work well, but there are times when it's a helpful technique to have at the ready. I guess I could have designed templates for my upcoming pattern, but even the thought of that is SO PAINFUL. Paper piecing is the path of least resistance here!
DeleteLove this block! The last time I tried paper piecing was about 30 years ago, and I really didn’t know what I was doing. I’m more patient now. Maybe I should look at it again.
ReplyDeleteMichelle
https://mybijoulifeonline.com
Paper piecing is a method I don't use super frequently, so it takes me one or two blocks to get back into the rhythm, but I appreciate it and the crisp results it can create. Your design is lovely and I look forward to more!
ReplyDeleteI don't mind FPP, but traditional piecing is my preference. :)
ReplyDeleteI LOVE foundation pp, it makes challenging blocks so accurate, especially when they're very small blocks. FPP is a perfect choice for the spin blocks you are piecing, happy stitching!
ReplyDeleteI get sucked into paper piecing every once in a while. Then as I pull all those papers, I swear I am never paper piecing again :)
ReplyDeleteThis block is a beauty. Well done. I have done some paper piecing and do enjoy the accuracy of it, but have not done any in while. This looks like a fun one to try though. Have a very lovely weekend.
ReplyDeleteI am currently making an FPP. And it’s a first for me. I am enjoying it, but have stonewalled for a few weeks. I used ordinary copy paper to print the pattern and have had no problems with it. But I watched a YouTube video with Sarah Fielke recently where she advised against using anything but the proper FPP paper as fibres from other papers could get into the sewing machine mechanism and cause damage to the machine. I’m a newbie to it, so can’t attest to an expert view. By the way - the linky party link doesn’t appear on this post?
ReplyDeleteOops. Just slow to load. There it is!
DeleteI have only tried paper piecing a few times and it was very hard to wrap my head around. Spatially it was challenging and I frequently had pieces cut and/or sewn the wrong way. I gave up - this is supposed to be fun not infuriating!! Maybe if I took a class or something??
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely block, and quilt! I don't mind paper piecing... but then I love nearly every technique possible with quiltmaking. I've designed a FPP quilt block too, and have begun making the quilt. I just had to put it down last year, and need to pick it up again. Enjoy making yours! Love that minty green.
ReplyDeleteFabulous blocks, well done!
ReplyDeleteI have never tried paper piecing. Maybe it’s time I give it a shot!
ReplyDeleteHaven’t tried paper piecing yet…want to learn free motion quilting first, but a friend paper pieced a gorgeous batik quilt for her daughter. It inspired awe if not ambition in me.
ReplyDeleteI have a very interesting paper piecing pattern of a cat. Haven't had a chance to do it yet. May pass it on to someone who is already into paper piecing.
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