Learn how to do foundation paper piecing with instructions in a step by step tutorial by Cindy Hathaway. Use this technique for piecing small designs with odd angles or sizes.
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10 20 30 Minutes to Learn Paper Piecing
| Getting StartedPaper foundation piecing is ideal for small, intricate designs or designs with odd angles and sizes of pieces. Eliminate tracing the patterns by using Fons & Porter’s Printed Foundation Sheets. | ||
 Photo A |
 Photo B |
 Photo C |
| 1. Using ruler and pencil, trace the outline of all shapes and the outer edge of the foundation pattern onto tracing paper. Number the pieces to indicate the stitching order. Using fabric pieces that are larger than the numbered areas, place fabrics for #1 and #2 right sides together. Position pattern atop fabrics with printed side of paper facing you (Photo A). Make sure the fabric for #1 is under that area and that edges of fabrics extend 1/4″ beyond stitching line between the two sections.2. Using a short machine stitch so papers will tear off easily later, sew on stitching line between the two areas, extending stitching into seam allowances at ends of seams.3. Open out pieces and press or finger press the seam (Photo B). The right sides of the fabric pieces will be facing out on the back side if the paper pattern.4. Flip the work over and fold back paper pattern on sewn line. Trim seam allowance to 1/4″ being careful not to to cut paper pattern (Photo C).5. Continue to add pieces in numerical order until pattern is covered. Use rotary cutter and ruler to trim excess paper and fabric along outer pattern lines (Photo D).
6. Join pieced sections to complete block (Photo E). 7. Carefully tear off foundation paper. |
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 Photo D |
 Photo E |
Sew Smart™ Instead of tracing paper, try one of the new water-soluble paper products. Instead of tearing off the paper after sewing, just moisten, and the paper disappears. —Liz |
Download free printable instructions for Paper Foundation Piecing
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How does this pertain to Effervescence page 77 in your latest magazine
A. McKenzie, 2 months ago
This is a good tutorial, but Liz does a great Class on Flying Geese. Paper piecing for me is tedious, time consuming, and just not fun, but Thanks for Sharing!:)
Pat Frontuto, 2 months ago
Just finished piecing Chasing Chevrons, I like to score the lines on the paper pattern from the right side. It makes it easy to fold pattern from wrong side. I also like the rulers that have a 1/4″ ridge to cut seam allowances.
Maxine, 2 days ago