I finished my Fall Swap wall hanging and will have it in the mail by the deadline. YEAH! I wanted to use a pattern that allowed me to incorporated all the great fall colors. I selected a paper-piecing pattern from Bright and Bold Paperpieced Blocks by Carol Doak
because her patterns use - obviously - bright and bold colors. Perfect. The patterns also have a kaleidoscope look, which appealed to me.
I have never had luck with paper-piecing because the instructions I had were not very clear. I wasted a lot of fabric guessing what size to cut my pieces, and I had various other issues trying to line up the fabric, removing the paper without pulling stitches, and a lining up finished blocks. Carol's instructions looked clear and detailed, so I gave it a try.
Overall, Doak's instructions worked for me and I really like the results. The greatest feature in the book is the cutting instructions and measurements for each piece. I did not have to guess what size to cut the pieces.
As I completed my wall-hanging, I created a list of tips for paper-piecing that will make your experience easier.
1. I am all about saving money so I used ordinary printer paper to print the block patterns. It worked, but with unnecessary difficulties. I highly recommend that you spend the few extra dollars and purchase the foundation paper. Foundation paper clearly shows the pattern through either side, it allows you to see the fabric through the pattern, and it tears easily when it is time to remove the pattern from the fabric.
2. Though it takes longer, take the time to fold the paper-pattern back on the line between the two pieces you are about to sew together. Align your ruler so that it extends 1/4" over the paper and trim the fabric. This will help you properly align your fabric pieces accurately.
3. Even if the instructions say to stitch 1/4" on either side of the pattern lines, don't. When it is time to fold the paper back and trim the fabric to 1/4", you will have to rip the paper where your stitch goes past the line.
4. Do not just finger press the fabric pieces open. Take the time to iron them. This helps to reduce the bulk where several pieces come together.
5. Check out these other tips from Quilter's Around the World.
Paper-piecing takes longer, but the results are fantastic. I have not had points so sharp or pieces align so accurately.
If you have any tips for paper-piecing, please share them in the comments section.
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