Part 1 in a series of Paper Pieced Star Blocks
Paper piecing (or foundation piecing) is a technique that ensures high accuracy and is especially useful for piecing more complicated patchwork blocks. I love paper piecing and it has been too long since my last paper piecing project. I am in need of a paper piecing fix!
Paper piecing (or foundation piecing) is a technique that ensures high accuracy and is especially useful for piecing more complicated patchwork blocks. I love paper piecing and it has been too long since my last paper piecing project. I am in need of a paper piecing fix!
Carol Doak is a paper piecing master. Carol's books including Simply Sensational 9-Patch Stars have been on my book shelf for (quite) a while. The great thing about Carol's paper piecing books is that they come complete with a CD (and CD's are also separately availabe) which allows you to print the foundation papers directly from you computer to your printer in whatever block size you choose. No need to trace the designs, no photocopying, and no complicated maths to enlarge your block.
This block is called New Mexico Star and is block #31 in the above mentioned book. The block consists of just three different foundation designs, all printed effortlessly.
Once you've got your paper piecing rhythm the block comes together quickly and accurately. Paper piecing is repetitive and I tend to oversize my fabric pieces - larger than the area it needs to fill - and trim back the seam allowance after stitching each seam. It is a slow process, but well worth the sharp points and accurate results.
I thought I'd show you some of my favorite paper piecing tools:
- Glue Stick: I use this instead of pins (which I find distorts the papers). The smallest touch of glue will temporarily adhere your first fabric piece to your foundation paper. You can adjust the fabric until it is in just the right spot and from there stitch your additional pieces with confidence.
- Sticky Tape: To tape together any foundation papers that are accidentally cut into - Oops!
- Tweezers: Very handy tool when it comes to removing the foundation papers, especially from the sharp points and seam lines.
- Seam Ripper: self-explanatory.
Watch this space for more paper pieced star blocks!
Rita
