Introduction to Simple Paper Piecing

Foundation paper piecing allows you to make complex designs, but even simple designs are more accurate with this quilting technique.

See how to get started with simple paper piecing in this video. Scroll down to see a transcript.

After some practice, you can move on to more complex patterns with confidence. The steps are the same.

Transcript

Paper piecing can strike fear and anxiety into the hearts of some quilters because it is a little bit different form of piecing. But once you understand the basic principles for how to do paper piecing, you can get amazing results.

Pattern

Now if you’re just getting started, begin with a simple project. A great option is the flying birds quilt block. See how to draft that pattern in this tutorial.

If you have a different pattern, it would be constructed in the same way. The pattern should be labeled with the order in which the pieces are added.

Cut pieces

When you cut your pieces, cut them bigger than you would normally cut. You will be stitching and then trimming the fabric down to size, so leave extra to work with. Also remember to allow extra fabric for pieces that are more odd-shape sizes and angles.

Stitching

Line up the fabric for piece #1 on the back of the paper lining it up with the shape on the paper. Make sure that the fabric extends 1/4” around the whole piece.

Place fabric for piece #2 on piece #1 right sides together, aligning the seam allowance edge.

Stitch along the stitching line on the paper. A smaller stitch length will make the papers easier to remove later.

After stitching, trim the seam allowance to 1/4”, then fold back piece #2 and press.

Repeat these steps with the rest of the pieces in the order indicated on the pattern.

Finishing

When all the pieces have been added, you can trim the final piece. Be sure that you have a 1/4” sea allowance around the whole piece.

If you are joining this piece to another piece, join before the paper is removed.

Once everything is assembled, carefully remove the papers.

Enjoy your perfectly pieced project.