Thanks to PROVEN Skincare for sponsoring this video! You can get 50% discount off the retail price on your personalized 3-step skincare routine using my code QUILTS99: bit.ly/quilts_proven - Valid for limited time only!
I’ve been doing this for YEARS after taking a class from Judy Niemeyer about 20 years ago. The LIGHTBULB went off then. Works EVERY time, no pieces too small when flipping to the next piece. WooHoo🙌🙌!! Best tip of the day, Karen👍!!
First, I’ve learned a lot from you, but I will have to disagree on several elements on this topic. I’ve done quite a bit of FPP, including miniatures and learned from many experts including from a certified Quiltworkz educator and Carol Doak. I don’t recommend cutting the seam allowance. It gives you wiggle room in preserving the 1/4 seam, so you aren’t short when flipping over. The 1/4 seam gives you a cut line. You can remove paper at seam when joining sections while keeping the other paper intact. I recommend 1-1.5 stitch size, really helps tearing off. I wouldn’t back stitch or lock stitch bc it can at bulk at points, smaller stitch solves that. Sew off the paper. Many patterns do not include the seam allowance. You must measure and examine the pattern. I draw them when missing. I do love FPP bc it gives you great results.
I’m on a learning journey and this week it’s focused on FPP for Moda blockheads 5 block 14. I’ve waded through an initial starting phase and needed more tips. Thank you for commenting. Now, off to watch Karen’s video! 😊
I have taught myself FPP via RUclips videos, the last six months. Your video is by far one of the best. Wish I had it six months ago. I love your videos. You do excellent work explaining everything and easy terms. Thank you.
I actually get a ream of actual newspaper paper from Amazon for my paper piecing. As someone who has extreme sensitive hearing some days, I used to use tissue paper that I would iron until it was flat, glue it to a piece of cardstock and then put it through my printer, but I couldn't handle the sound and it made me move away from FPP for a long time. One of my aunts suggested newspaper paper and the first time I used it, I knew she was right and I've used it since then. With it being super lightweight and the smaller stitch length, removing it from the block is super easy. I keep the 1/4" on the paper, even if I can't get all of the smaller pieces, I'm not too bothered by it because it's thin paper and it will eventually disintegrate when the quilt is washed. I also will print my extra block for cutting on cardstock, THEN I cut the pieces and I give myself a very generous 3/4" extra, I'd rather have too much then not enough. I use Alphabitties if the block is simple, I just match the piece to the Alphabitty and then keep it on the stack. I've lost the cardstock pieces in the past, by using the Alphabitties, I can put the templates away somewhere safe and if I have to cut more, I don't have to worry about not having all the pieces. One big tip for certain, make sure you have enough ink!!! Luckily, I do my own refilling of my cartridges but I haven't in the past. Even if you THINK you have enough ink, you still may not so have an extra set of cartridges nearby, just in case. This is especially true if your full quilt top is going to be paper pieced, you'll be printing out dozens of blocks and running out of ink in the middle of the process is absolutely a hair raising experience. I do know this one from experience!!
Your tips for cutting the fabric pieces to prep for the pattern were GOLD. Using the highlighter to mark the edges of the pattern pieces for the background to ensure they match the grain is something I never learned. It is going to be an absolute game changer for my blocks to keep them from (sometimes) warping.
This tip I learned from another RUclips creator - Lisa Capen of Lisa Capen Quilts. Instead of pre-folding her pieces, she uses a lightbox to place her fabric the 1/4" needed past the sewline. Then she takes it to the sewing machine and sews on the line. She also uses a roller to press her piece and a glue stick to make sure the fabric stays in place before cutting her 1/4".
thank you for this! - I am looking forward to watching her freezer paper method. This looks beyond my skill set and patience level. But I watch and love all her videos; the is the tips goddess!
Me too but while cleaning out my sewing room I found a paper piecing pattern with papers I bought ages ago. I wanted a refresher. I took a class from Cynthia England. Love her process! Love freezer paper patterns she sells.
Karen, these are fantastic tips, especially using the extra pattern as templates for the pieces. Takes a lot of the frustration out of the process! Thanks so much 😊
When I place my two pieces together, if I’m not sure how things are gonna lay, I use pins to simulate the seam and I pin on the seam line and fold the fabric back to make sure that it will cover the area that it’s supposed to with adequate seam allowance. It’s a lot easier to remove pins than stitches!
1. I cut strips (wide enough for whatever is needed), then cut the pieces as I go. This allows me to have sufficient buffer around the pieces. Usually I cut off scraps large enough to use on another step of the FPP. 2. I make 1 block as a test, then move all blocks through each step, together. 3. I use old tweezers to pull all the paper. It really makes it easier and less messy. 4. I DEFINITELY leave the paper on the seams. There is no way I'd remember to leave it extended beyond the stitch line.
Karen, several comments... your weight change looks FABULOUS on you. Your hair style is your neslxt FABULOUS...you have found your zone, keep this up. The paper piecing is a win for me & a great many quilter. Thank you.
FPP is a godsend to those of us with aging vision. Dear Jane has been on my bucket list for a very long time. I originally thought I would hand piece but not happening with my eyesight. Decided to try FPP. Used free & very old quilt assistant to draft the blocks then had QA print for FPP. The final piece to the Dear Jane was to use vellum paper instead of newsprint because I can see the placement of those tiny patches without resorting to a light box.
A few years ago I tried FPP on my sewing machine. Didn’t like it one bit. Then I traced the pattern onto lightweight muslin and hand-sewed a test block. I fell in love! My last FPP project was a log cabin decorative pillow. And, it’s time for me to do find a new pattern for another project! 😊
I watched this at 6 am and I just finished my star of Bethlehem block!!! I am so happy I conquered my past issues with fpp! Thank you for helping me take a new skill!!
Thank you Karen for such a thorough explanation of FPP method. It always looked to fussy for me but your tree pattern looks manageable. I will definitely have to give it a go this year.👏♥️🇦🇺
I've never really been interested in paper piecing, and your video is the first one I've watched where I thought, "Well, you know...maybe I will..." Trust me when I say even that bit of a shift in opinion is a big deal; I can definitely be a stubborn, cut off your nose to spite your face sort of person. It seems like a lot of work, yet you can't argue with the results. The blocks really came out clean and attractive. Anyway the video is now saved in two different playlists for future reference 🙂
Oh Karen, Ive done several Paper Pieced projects but I have always been frustrated by flipping over a piece and finding it was not big enough. Cutting out the pieces is a great idea I had never heard before! I'll try that in a dragon quilt for my niece Ive been putting off. Maybe this is the year to do it! Im looking forward to more of your series!
Thank you this is the BEST tutorial on paper piecing that I've watched. And yes now I see why you trimmed off the seam allowance when prepping the pattern. Now why had I never thought of that as that was my biggest bugbear about leaving the paper on when going sections together. Absolutely brilliant, thank you
What would we do without you!!! I’m doing my first FPP pattern and as usual didn’t start with anything simple , I’ve watched lots of tutorials but then thought let’s check and see if you’d done a tutorial and YES I get it now, thank you 🇬🇧 !!
I am so looking forward to all the aspects you plan to cover in this FPP series! You explain it really well and I love the "Pro Tips" :-) thank you for sharing your expertise and encouragement. I am going to give this a try!
👍 I at least have to give this a try. You are the best with "tips and tricks." I often play pieces of your videos over and over as I'm working till it becomes a habit. Thanks for all you do!
So well explained as usual but we must not take it for granted. Not everyone can do it like you do. Clear, precise, covering all angles. EXPERTLY. This video is going strait in my basics tutorials for future reference because, now, I have to do some! Can't wait for the other ones. Thank you so much for the precious time you put into everything you do.
I tried FPP once last fall on a pumpkin FPP pattern. Being a novice, I thought I'd try the smaller version. Thought it would be easier. Hah! It turned out okay, but the bigger version turned out much better. I will look for some simple FPPs so I can hone my skills. Grabbed the ones you provided for free! Thanks! Looking forward to watching the rest of the series. Thanks for all the great tips!
I happen to enjoy FPP, and I love your directions...except the one about eliminating the extra 1/4" on the outside edge. I find it very helpful to make sure the fabric covers that extra quarter inch. There were two tools you used that I think would help me, since I'm usually doing a Niemeyer design: the seam roller, and that blue stiletto to remove the paper! Gotta get me one each. Thanks for the video.
I had the same frustration, because I couldn’t visualize the reverse lines of the paper. I saw a product for printable transparent paper. Wow! But it being a quilting online store the price was over the top for 25 sheets. I went to Amazon and found the same product for about 75% reduction in cost, because it had no use for quilting on the description. What a game changer.
@JustGetitDoneQuilts My second ever quilt pattern last May was a Judy Niemeyer paper piecing, which is still a UFO. It left me feeling overwhelmed. Your video has given me courage, and I have a project I promised for a friend. Well, it is officially my next project. After watching your video, I did a RUclips squirrel hunt on paper piecing. I think it will be a great solution to a complex UFO I naively said I would do. The plan is to make a multi-shaded green stole for a friend who is a Presbyterian minister so that it looks like randomly cut, stained glass. The material she picked is Northcott Stonehenge material, so it "should" be good to work with. I will start it as soon as I finish a top that is almost done. Wish me luck!
@@hazeldw4786Good luck Hazel. The project sounds as if it will look terrific! I’m in the same boat with a very tricky FPP UFO which I set aside, but your post just reminded me that I had bought a much simpler FPP pattern awhile ago for a cute little sleeping fox (pattern by Andrea Tsang Jackson) that would make a lovely cushion. I just need to ask someone to print the pattern for me, or take it to Staples (although I really should buy myself a printer). Wish *me* luck! 😂
the Violet Craft elephant was the first quilt and the first paper piece project I ever made. I love FPP. I've never precut the fabrics though. To me that's just such a waste of time. I've never had a problem with cutting pieces wrong, but I can see how it will help a lot of people. FPP can be really tricky to wrap your head around when you're used to regular blocking. From the giant elephant, I've now gone to the miniature work of Kumiko Frydl.
Thanks Karen, you must have been listening to me all the way down here to Brisbane! I was thinking of starting some paper piecing once we return from caravaning..where I hope to do Hexies once again (after a 5 year break!). Cheers, keep up the great work!
One more tip when paper foundation paper piecing is to shorten your stitch length, it helps tremendously when removing the paper. The shorter the stitch the better the perferation for removal.
I’m anxiously waiting for my grandmother’s vintage singer machine to be finished being serviced. So I can begin my sewing/quilting adventure! I want to practice cutting fabric. I just need to figure out what i need. I can’t wait to try paper piecing in the future
I have two copies of a very intricate quilt pattern that I hope to make someday. I think doing a few simpler patterns before starting the big monster! Fortunately, the pattern comes with all the copies needed all included with it. I will make that extra copy as recommended here. Thanks for a great video, Karen. I hope I can find it again when I'm ready to het rolling on this technique.
I enjoy FPP when I am in the mood to do it. I have to get my think cap on for 3 dimensional work. I can't be tired when I do it, but the effect is super!
For any with an acrylic sewing table (e.g. Sew Steady), you can create an instant light box. Because of the mirroring, you have to train your brain. Be kind to yourself and allow that to evolve. A Hot Hemmer is fantastic as a folding tool along with the add a Quarter. It can also serve as a tear edge along the stitching to help you get the paper out without tearing stitches. The AAQ ruler helps you get into the rhythm better because you can do this tactiley v. visually. Also, you can use your sewing machine to needle punch along the lines of the design which helps you "see" on the other side. (use a discard needle).
Great tips Karen. Another thing I learned was you can use a tracing wheel on the sewlines of your pattern. This perforates the pattern lines and makes tearing the paper off easier. Especially when you use photocopy paper when you want to paper piece on a whim because you have no lighter paper in the house at midnight....
I got a FPP book for christmas. 50 stars for 50 states? So much fun. Big boost for this beginner quilter that I could make really pretty blocks without too much stress.
I am just getting started with foundation paper piecing, working on the Farmer's Wife patterns. It has been a struggle, but your video is SOOOO helpful! Thanks so much for your very clear instructions and explanations.
My first introduction to FPP was with Irene at Sugaridoo. Right now I am giving EPP a try. I bought the pencil case that you did a video on and I love it! It went on a cruise with me and also has been with me while I house/ dog sit.
I love your teaching method. ♥️ I'm doing my first FPP project. Unfortunately, I somehow missed your comment at 7:12, and I cut my fabric pieces with a 1/4" allowance instead of 3/8" or 1/2". I made it really hard on myself, but I'm determined to "just get it done!" Thanks for your tutorials! 😊
Hi Karen! Thank you for the helpful hints. Sewing sections together can be challenging. Especially when sections are small. My Halloween cat in a tree wall hanging I made several years ago from paper piecing was renamed "Psycho Kitty!" The eyes were off a little. One of my favorite pattern books is Log cabin paper piecing. Little blocks that are fun to make and can be sized larger. Great for Christmas ornaments. But Please take care. Marion in Oregon.
I like to use freezer paper for my pieces, you can re use it over and over. You also don't sew through any paper so less fiddly. Paper piecing is totally addictive! Thanks for a great video and pattern Karen.
I have wanted to try this and OMG I'm so here for this series. It's hard & challenging but you make it seem approachable & doable. Cannot wait for the rest of the series!
I made a sample paper piecing block years ago and one tip I have is use a small scale print for smaller areas. I used a larger scale print for a small area and didn’t like the results. Thank you for the great tutorial 👍!
Nice series!!! I was just going to suggest freezer paper piecing, but then you said it was in the series. It saves a LOT of time and you don't have to pull out the paper. I can't wait to see what tips you are going to teach me!
You never disappoint in your videos! This was great, especially the tip to use one copy as templates to cut fabric pieces from! My FPP experience has been mostly with using pads from the Fat Quarter Shop. But now I'm going to make some Evergreen blocks...thanks for the free pattern!
I watched your Gemology video and bought the book, only to realize I need to learn how to paper piece before jumping into such an ambitious project. Thank you so much for this video!!!
I’m really going to have to get myself a printer. And a bunch of newsprint-thin paper. I like your ‘extra copy = templates’ idea. I started FPP with a little bit too-advanced a pattern (Judy Neimeyer’s Moonglow), and I kind of got discouraged so I set it aside. Some of those multi piece mariners’ compass blocks are no joke! It’s not that the blocks were necessarily too difficult, but they were complicated, and I sew slowly to begin with (& struggle with motivation 😊). I am going to look through my stored post and screenshots of FPP designs I liked, and try it as a pillow size or tote bag side to get back into the groove. Thanks for all the tips Karen!
I'm making a quilt in the near future that has 2 paper piece blocks. I'm a bit nervous so this video come at the perfect time. Thanks for your tips and clear instructions.
I have done paper piecing for a while, and I've learned several ways over the years. I was skeptical when I saw you trim off the quarter inch sewing line, at first, but I have to say, it intrigues me and I think I'm going to give it a shot!
Very helpful tips and guidelines. I’m looking forward to the next videos as well. Thank you for making them. I’m not sure why FPP is so daunting, but it is.
I’ve got a FPP project with over 1200 pieces in my near future! These are great tips! Also, I completely agree about the waste…it always kills me, but the results are worth it! I make myself feel better by having a big stack of bonus blocks ready to go to use as enders/leaders so I have something with no waste being pieced at the same time! Thanks for another great video, and I’m so happy to have met you briefly at QuiltCon!
Foundation paper piecing….love it!! Watched an episode of Fons and Porter love of quilting and kept backing up the episode until the A HA moment caught on. That was years ago. I am in the process of now tying a quilt for my nephew and his bride to be…honoring my great aunt, his great great aunt, who taught me how to tie quilts. Here’s to my beloved great Aunt Mary who, as a child, we visited every summer on her farm without running water and the two seat outhouse. Fond, fond memories!!
Thanks to PROVEN Skincare for sponsoring this video! You can get 50% discount off the retail price on your personalized 3-step skincare routine using my code QUILTS99: bit.ly/quilts_proven - Valid for limited time only!
The seam rollers can be found at the hardware store in the wallpaper department...much cheaper than the fancy fabric store ones.
It’s going to take me watching this a thousand times for my brain to catch up.
It’s an upside down backwards technique. 🤪
I’ve been doing this for YEARS after taking a class from Judy Niemeyer about 20 years ago. The LIGHTBULB went off then. Works EVERY time, no pieces too small when flipping to the next piece. WooHoo🙌🙌!! Best tip of the day, Karen👍!!
Wow. You must have made some beautiful quilts
First, I’ve learned a lot from you, but I will have to disagree on several elements on this topic. I’ve done quite a bit of FPP, including miniatures and learned from many experts including from a certified Quiltworkz educator and Carol Doak. I don’t recommend cutting the seam allowance. It gives you wiggle room in preserving the 1/4 seam, so you aren’t short when flipping over. The 1/4 seam gives you a cut line. You can remove paper at seam when joining sections while keeping the other paper intact. I recommend 1-1.5 stitch size, really helps tearing off. I wouldn’t back stitch or lock stitch bc it can at bulk at points, smaller stitch solves that. Sew off the paper. Many patterns do not include the seam allowance. You must measure and examine the pattern. I draw them when missing. I do love FPP bc it gives you great results.
I’m on a learning journey and this week it’s focused on FPP for Moda blockheads 5 block 14. I’ve waded through an initial starting phase and needed more tips. Thank you for commenting.
Now, off to watch Karen’s video! 😊
I have taught myself FPP via RUclips videos, the last six months. Your video is by far one of the best. Wish I had it six months ago. I love your videos. You do excellent work explaining everything and easy terms. Thank you.
I actually get a ream of actual newspaper paper from Amazon for my paper piecing. As someone who has extreme sensitive hearing some days, I used to use tissue paper that I would iron until it was flat, glue it to a piece of cardstock and then put it through my printer, but I couldn't handle the sound and it made me move away from FPP for a long time. One of my aunts suggested newspaper paper and the first time I used it, I knew she was right and I've used it since then. With it being super lightweight and the smaller stitch length, removing it from the block is super easy. I keep the 1/4" on the paper, even if I can't get all of the smaller pieces, I'm not too bothered by it because it's thin paper and it will eventually disintegrate when the quilt is washed.
I also will print my extra block for cutting on cardstock, THEN I cut the pieces and I give myself a very generous 3/4" extra, I'd rather have too much then not enough. I use Alphabitties if the block is simple, I just match the piece to the Alphabitty and then keep it on the stack. I've lost the cardstock pieces in the past, by using the Alphabitties, I can put the templates away somewhere safe and if I have to cut more, I don't have to worry about not having all the pieces.
One big tip for certain, make sure you have enough ink!!! Luckily, I do my own refilling of my cartridges but I haven't in the past. Even if you THINK you have enough ink, you still may not so have an extra set of cartridges nearby, just in case. This is especially true if your full quilt top is going to be paper pieced, you'll be printing out dozens of blocks and running out of ink in the middle of the process is absolutely a hair raising experience. I do know this one from experience!!
WOW, I can''t wait for the rest of the series, you are the best teacher ever!! Thank you.
Your tips for cutting the fabric pieces to prep for the pattern were GOLD. Using the highlighter to mark the edges of the pattern pieces for the background to ensure they match the grain is something I never learned. It is going to be an absolute game changer for my blocks to keep them from (sometimes) warping.
This tip I learned from another RUclips creator - Lisa Capen of Lisa Capen Quilts. Instead of pre-folding her pieces, she uses a lightbox to place her fabric the 1/4" needed past the sewline. Then she takes it to the sewing machine and sews on the line. She also uses a roller to press her piece and a glue stick to make sure the fabric stays in place before cutting her 1/4".
Genius! Using the template to cut the fabric. I’ve waisted so much fabric by cutting the pieces wrong.
I have found using freezer paper so much easier and love the results.
thank you for this! - I am looking forward to watching her freezer paper method. This looks beyond my skill set and patience level. But I watch and love all her videos; the is the tips goddess!
Yea and don’t see on paper
Me too but while cleaning out my sewing room I found a paper piecing pattern with papers I bought ages ago. I wanted a refresher.
I took a class from Cynthia England. Love her process! Love freezer paper patterns she sells.
Karen, these are fantastic tips, especially using the extra pattern as templates for the pieces. Takes a lot of the frustration out of the process! Thanks so much 😊
When I place my two pieces together, if I’m not sure how things are gonna lay, I use pins to simulate the seam and I pin on the seam line and fold the fabric back to make sure that it will cover the area that it’s supposed to with adequate seam allowance. It’s a lot easier to remove pins than stitches!
That sounds like a wonderful idea, hadn't necessarily thought of that one either
1. I cut strips (wide enough for whatever is needed), then cut the pieces as I go. This allows me to have sufficient buffer around the pieces. Usually I cut off scraps large enough to use on another step of the FPP.
2. I make 1 block as a test, then move all blocks through each step, together.
3. I use old tweezers to pull all the paper. It really makes it easier and less messy.
4. I DEFINITELY leave the paper on the seams. There is no way I'd remember to leave it extended beyond the stitch line.
Sounds like you have a good system
I've been doing FPP for decades, and I learned some new tips from you. THANK YOU!!
FPP is on my list to conquer this year. Thanks for sharing your tips.
Have fun!
Karen, several comments... your weight change looks FABULOUS on you. Your hair style is your neslxt FABULOUS...you have found your zone, keep this up. The paper piecing is a win for me & a great many quilter. Thank you.
Thank you so much!
FPP is a godsend to those of us with aging vision. Dear Jane has been on my bucket list for a very long time. I originally thought I would hand piece but not happening with my eyesight. Decided to try FPP. Used free & very old quilt assistant to draft the blocks then had QA print for FPP. The final piece to the Dear Jane was to use vellum paper instead of newsprint because I can see the placement of those tiny patches without resorting to a light box.
A few years ago I tried FPP on my sewing machine. Didn’t like it one bit. Then I traced the pattern onto lightweight muslin and hand-sewed a test block. I fell in love! My last FPP project was a log cabin decorative pillow. And, it’s time for me to do find a new pattern for another project! 😊
Can’t wait for ‘how to make your own patterns’ segment. Thanks for this tutorial. I have done FPP for a while, but I still learned something new.
I watched this at 6 am and I just finished my star of Bethlehem block!!! I am so happy I conquered my past issues with fpp! Thank you for helping me take a new skill!!
Excellent
Thank you Karen for such a thorough explanation of FPP method. It always looked to fussy for me but your tree pattern looks manageable. I will definitely have to give it a go this year.👏♥️🇦🇺
Brilliant tutorial. I wish to were around when l first started FPP. ❤ Thank you
I've never really been interested in paper piecing, and your video is the first one I've watched where I thought, "Well, you know...maybe I will..." Trust me when I say even that bit of a shift in opinion is a big deal; I can definitely be a stubborn, cut off your nose to spite your face sort of person. It seems like a lot of work, yet you can't argue with the results. The blocks really came out clean and attractive. Anyway the video is now saved in two different playlists for future reference 🙂
Oh Karen, Ive done several Paper Pieced projects but I have always been frustrated by flipping over a piece and finding it was not big enough. Cutting out the pieces is a great idea I had never heard before! I'll try that in a dragon quilt for my niece Ive been putting off. Maybe this is the year to do it! Im looking forward to more of your series!
Thank you this is the BEST tutorial on paper piecing that I've watched. And yes now I see why you trimmed off the seam allowance when prepping the pattern. Now why had I never thought of that as that was my biggest bugbear about leaving the paper on when going sections together. Absolutely brilliant, thank you
Best demonstration I have seen so far. Thank you so much I will give it a try.
What would we do without you!!! I’m doing my first FPP pattern and as usual didn’t start with anything simple , I’ve watched lots of tutorials but then thought let’s check and see if you’d done a tutorial and YES I get it now, thank you 🇬🇧 !!
I am so looking forward to all the aspects you plan to cover in this FPP series! You explain it really well and I love the "Pro Tips" :-) thank you for sharing your expertise and encouragement. I am going to give this a try!
Great tutorial! Excited to see your series on FPP!
❤Perfect timing to see this video. I saw a lion face pillow and drew it on graph paper but didn’t know the details of FPP. I need more tools!😄
I would love to try at some point thank you for explaining it so well I had no idea how to do it exactly (process wise)👍🏻
👍 I at least have to give this a try. You are the best with "tips and tricks." I often play pieces of your videos over and over as I'm working till it becomes a habit. Thanks for all you do!
So well explained as usual but we must not take it for granted. Not everyone can do it like you do. Clear, precise, covering all angles. EXPERTLY. This video is going strait in my basics tutorials for future reference because, now, I have to do some! Can't wait for the other ones. Thank you so much for the precious time you put into everything you do.
Thank you 🤗🤗🤗
I love paper piecing. Removing the paper is done while I was watch TV.
I tried FPP once last fall on a pumpkin FPP pattern. Being a novice, I thought I'd try the smaller version. Thought it would be easier. Hah! It turned out okay, but the bigger version turned out much better. I will look for some simple FPPs so I can hone my skills. Grabbed the ones you provided for free! Thanks! Looking forward to watching the rest of the series. Thanks for all the great tips!
I happen to enjoy FPP, and I love your directions...except the one about eliminating the extra 1/4" on the outside edge. I find it very helpful to make sure the fabric covers that extra quarter inch. There were two tools you used that I think would help me, since I'm usually doing a Niemeyer design: the seam roller, and that blue stiletto to remove the paper! Gotta get me one each. Thanks for the video.
The plastic stiletto for removing the papers was a game changer for me
I prefer FPP as opposed to traditional piecing. I am so unsure of my stitching this gives me the confidence I need to make PERFECT blocks every time!
I love FPP, but freezer paper method is a game changer. I can’t wait for you to share your tips with it! Lookin forward to this series 🎉
You make it look so easy. Paper piecing quickly became my nemesis when I first started quilting last May (2023). Maybe I'll give it another try.
You should…just start with scraps
I had the same frustration, because I couldn’t visualize the reverse lines of the paper. I saw a product for printable transparent paper. Wow! But it being a quilting online store the price was over the top for 25 sheets. I went to Amazon and found the same product for about 75% reduction in cost, because it had no use for quilting on the description. What a game changer.
@@marinaabad4995 I call these markups a "pink tax" because we seem to be a target audience.
@JustGetitDoneQuilts My second ever quilt pattern last May was a Judy Niemeyer paper piecing, which is still a UFO. It left me feeling overwhelmed. Your video has given me courage, and I have a project I promised for a friend. Well, it is officially my next project. After watching your video, I did a RUclips squirrel hunt on paper piecing. I think it will be a great solution to a complex UFO I naively said I would do. The plan is to make a multi-shaded green stole for a friend who is a Presbyterian minister so that it looks like randomly cut, stained glass. The material she picked is Northcott Stonehenge material, so it "should" be good to work with. I will start it as soon as I finish a top that is almost done. Wish me luck!
@@hazeldw4786Good luck Hazel. The project sounds as if it will look terrific! I’m in the same boat with a very tricky FPP UFO which I set aside, but your post just reminded me that I had bought a much simpler FPP pattern awhile ago for a cute little sleeping fox (pattern by Andrea Tsang Jackson) that would make a lovely cushion. I just need to ask someone to print the pattern for me, or take it to Staples (although I really should buy myself a printer). Wish *me* luck! 😂
👍 I love paper piecing!
Thank you, Karen for this video. Very helpful. I need a refresher training. This was very helpful. Happy New Year!!
Learned a ton of tips and tricks, thanks Karen Brown.
Thank you for watching
the Violet Craft elephant was the first quilt and the first paper piece project I ever made. I love FPP. I've never precut the fabrics though. To me that's just such a waste of time. I've never had a problem with cutting pieces wrong, but I can see how it will help a lot of people. FPP can be really tricky to wrap your head around when you're used to regular blocking. From the giant elephant, I've now gone to the miniature work of Kumiko Frydl.
Wow…those are tiny
@@JustGetitDoneQuilts some of the compasses are 2 1/2 inch in diameter. I love the fussiness of it. also so much cheaper than the elephant lol
Thanks Karen, you must have been listening to me all the way down here to Brisbane! I was thinking of starting some paper piecing once we return from caravaning..where I hope to do Hexies once again (after a 5 year break!). Cheers, keep up the great work!
Great tute, Karen. Will look forward to the next ones. Thanks!
My favorite tip today: Keeping the outside of the block on grain, and using a highlighter. Thanks, Karen!
One more tip when paper foundation paper piecing is to shorten your stitch length, it helps tremendously when removing the paper. The shorter the stitch the better the perferation for removal.
Love paper piecing Quiltworx patterns. They make the process easy and efficient!
I’m anxiously waiting for my grandmother’s vintage singer machine to be finished being serviced. So I can begin my sewing/quilting adventure! I want to practice cutting fabric. I just need to figure out what i need. I can’t wait to try paper piecing in the future
Best paper piecing I have seen. Great info. Maybe now I can make moonshine
I have two copies of a very intricate quilt pattern that I hope to make someday. I think doing a few simpler patterns before starting the big monster! Fortunately, the pattern comes with all the copies needed all included with it. I will make that extra copy as recommended here. Thanks for a great video, Karen. I hope I can find it again when I'm ready to het rolling on this technique.
I enjoy FPP when I am in the mood to do it. I have to get my think cap on for 3 dimensional work. I can't be tired when I do it, but the effect is super!
For any with an acrylic sewing table (e.g. Sew Steady), you can create an instant light box.
Because of the mirroring, you have to train your brain. Be kind to yourself and allow that to evolve.
A Hot Hemmer is fantastic as a folding tool along with the add a Quarter. It can also serve as a tear edge along the stitching to help you get the paper out without tearing stitches. The AAQ ruler helps you get into the rhythm better because you can do this tactiley v. visually. Also, you can use your sewing machine to needle punch along the lines of the design which helps you "see" on the other side. (use a discard needle).
Thanks for all the tips especially of printing an extra block to use as templates for fabric.
Great tips Karen. Another thing I learned was you can use a tracing wheel on the sewlines of your pattern. This perforates the pattern lines and makes tearing the paper off easier. Especially when you use photocopy paper when you want to paper piece on a whim because you have no lighter paper in the house at midnight....
I got a FPP book for christmas. 50 stars for 50 states? So much fun. Big boost for this beginner quilter that I could make really pretty blocks without too much stress.
‘50 Stars for 50 States’ sounds like an homage to the USA’s 50 States.
I am making Christmas table runners for Christmas gifts. I bought a paper piecing pattern book. You’ve answered all my questions on how to. Thank you.
I am so glad you are doing this series! You are a great teacher and I have always wanted to learn more about this technique. Thank you so much!
This is a grt tutorial! I purchased a light box to help me avoid having to rip pieces out. Thx for this video
I ❤ FPP!! It's so fun to see intricate designs come to life.
Your video will certainly help me get my first FPP adventure off to a good start. Thanks!
Very very interesting, been EPP for almost 50 years but this is a new one to me. Can’t wait to try it😊 . I’ll start with your Christmas tree block
Thank you for such fantastic and easy to understand instructions
I was inspired by your 4th of July quilt. I have purchased the pattern, and in approximately 30 years, I will have a quilt😊
It’s a fun one
😸👍. Thank you! I always thought of pp as not needing precut fabrics until ……. I will be happy to try it again!
I am just getting started with foundation paper piecing, working on the Farmer's Wife patterns. It has been a struggle, but your video is SOOOO helpful! Thanks so much for your very clear instructions and explanations.
I have a love/hate relationship with Foundation Paper Piecing. I will be making paper templates in the future. Thanks.
My first introduction to FPP was with Irene at Sugaridoo. Right now I am giving EPP a try. I bought the pencil case that you did a video on and I love it! It went on a cruise with me and also has been with me while I house/ dog sit.
I love your teaching method. ♥️ I'm doing my first FPP project. Unfortunately, I somehow missed your comment at 7:12, and I cut my fabric pieces with a 1/4" allowance instead of 3/8" or 1/2". I made it really hard on myself, but I'm determined to "just get it done!" Thanks for your tutorials! 😊
This is wonderful!! So many great tips! Thank you, Karen! Can't wait for the next in the series!
Thanks so much! Nice seeing you in the chat
A+. I love paper piecing.
👍
Hi Karen! Thank you for the helpful hints. Sewing sections together can be challenging. Especially when sections are small. My Halloween cat in a tree wall hanging I made several years ago from paper piecing was renamed "Psycho Kitty!" The eyes were off a little. One of my favorite pattern books is Log cabin paper piecing. Little blocks that are fun to make and can be sized larger. Great for Christmas ornaments. But Please take care. Marion in Oregon.
Thanks for the great description… I will definitely try the technique !
I like to use freezer paper for my pieces, you can re use it over and over. You also don't sew through any paper so less fiddly. Paper piecing is totally addictive! Thanks for a great video and pattern Karen.
I have wanted to try this and OMG I'm so here for this series. It's hard & challenging but you make it seem approachable & doable. Cannot wait for the rest of the series!
I made a sample paper piecing block years ago and one tip I have is use a small scale print for smaller areas. I used a larger scale print for a small area and didn’t like the results. Thank you for the great tutorial 👍!
Nice series!!! I was just going to suggest freezer paper piecing, but then you said it was in the series. It saves a LOT of time and you don't have to pull out the paper. I can't wait to see what tips you are going to teach me!
I'm very interested in this method and love your tree pattern!
I've been FFPing for years but you've shown me a few new tricks! Thank you!
I have done this method in the past. Thinking I liked it. Yes going to try again. Thank you for all of tips
Thanks Karen! love the tips on making a template, mind blowing!
Thanks, I appreciate this video. I've done paper piecing before and liked it. This method seems a bit easier. Can't wait for the next one.
This is an excellent tutorial I have been paper piecing for a long time and you gave me great new tips. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
Very well explained!❤
Love this and I wanna try. Thanks
You never disappoint in your videos! This was great, especially the tip to use one copy as templates to cut fabric pieces from! My FPP experience has been mostly with using pads from the Fat Quarter Shop. But now I'm going to make some Evergreen blocks...thanks for the free pattern!
I have found that Evergreen so satisfying...I have made a ton
Jean you look so perky, despite your night shift Shennanigans ! All the very best solving those water problems. Congrats to the Winners 👏👏👏
This was great and I’m really looking forward to your tutorial to make your own FPP pattern!
I watched your Gemology video and bought the book, only to realize I need to learn how to paper piece before jumping into such an ambitious project. Thank you so much for this video!!!
Those gem blocks are beautiful
Great video! I’ve never become proficient at FPP but I’m going to keep trying! Thanks again 😀😀😀
I’m really going to have to get myself a printer. And a bunch of newsprint-thin paper. I like your ‘extra copy = templates’ idea. I started FPP with a little bit too-advanced a pattern (Judy Neimeyer’s Moonglow), and I kind of got discouraged so I set it aside. Some of those multi piece mariners’ compass blocks are no joke! It’s not that the blocks were necessarily too difficult, but they were complicated, and I sew slowly to begin with (& struggle with motivation 😊). I am going to look through my stored post and screenshots of FPP designs I liked, and try it as a pillow size or tote bag side to get back into the groove. Thanks for all the tips Karen!
I trust you implicitly!☺️
I'm making a quilt in the near future that has 2 paper piece blocks. I'm a bit nervous so this video come at the perfect time. Thanks for your tips and clear instructions.
I have done paper piecing for a while, and I've learned several ways over the years. I was skeptical when I saw you trim off the quarter inch sewing line, at first, but I have to say, it intrigues me and I think I'm going to give it a shot!
Did not like that at all, many patterns have 1/4 seam allowance and others don’t. I’d be careful on that.
I’m keeping my seam allowance. I disagree with Karen. Just remove the seam paper at joins
Give it a try. If you don’t think that it works for you, no harm done
Very helpful tips and guidelines. I’m looking forward to the next videos as well. Thank you for making them. I’m not sure why FPP is so daunting, but it is.
I’ve got a FPP project with over 1200 pieces in my near future! These are great tips! Also, I completely agree about the waste…it always kills me, but the results are worth it! I make myself feel better by having a big stack of bonus blocks ready to go to use as enders/leaders so I have something with no waste being pieced at the same time! Thanks for another great video, and I’m so happy to have met you briefly at QuiltCon!
REALLY good info Karen! Thank you!
Foundation paper piecing….love it!!
Watched an episode of Fons and Porter love of quilting and kept backing up the episode until the A HA moment caught on. That was years ago.
I am in the process of now tying a quilt for my nephew and his bride to be…honoring my great aunt, his great great aunt, who taught me how to tie quilts. Here’s to my beloved great Aunt Mary who, as a child, we visited every summer on her farm without running water and the two seat outhouse. Fond, fond memories!!