Foundation Piecing Essentials

Template

When foundation paper piecing, you will need a foundation. This is normally in the form of a template printed on either paper or lightweight fabric. If using a paper template, the template can be easily removed after the block is stitched, whereas a fabric template can be more difficult to remove or can simply be left in place. Ashley shows a paper template for a log cabin block and explains what the markings on it mean. Most templates will use either numbers or the alphabet and Ashley explains how you use those to know what order to sew your pieces together for the block.

Stitching

Once you understand all of the markings on the template you can begin stitching on your pieces. Ashley shows you how to start with either the number one piece, or the letter A piece. She explains what side of the template the fabric should be stitched to and why and gives tips on how to temporarily attach the first piece to the template.

From there Ashley shows how to work your way through the template, attaching, trimming and pressing each piece as you go. Flipping, folding and trimming your fabric as you go is an easy way to be able to know where to line up the next piece of fabric, however it is not the only way to foundation paper piece. You can also learn more paper piecing techniques with other short videos or with this class that explains all you need to know to start paper piecing.

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5 Responses to “Essentials to Foundation Paper Piecing”

Beverly H Francis November 24th, 2021

This would have been easier to see the finished block if the fabrics had better contrast. What was used looked like blanks/skips in the block. It look like some numbers were skipped when in fact light fabric was used that just didn't show up. Better choice of fabrics would have visualized better. Discussion of process might have been easy to understand if a bigger example of patyern had been used. Thanks
Jan Wright February 7th, 2019

You did not mention that the first piece is attached to the paper right side up so that all pieces are sewn right sides together. With the fabric you used it did not matter. However, with prints, it will be very important.
dlfrench April 14th, 2018

I notice you do not reverse stitch at the seams or go over the lines. I use your method when I make cards but is this still okay for a quilt top? Is the simple act of stitching the next line enough to keep it together? I have seen some videos where they backstitch. What has your experience been with the long term use of the paper pieced quilt tops? I am getting ready to do a large PP quilt top and want to be sure it stays together. Thank you!
KAREN July 31st, 2017

Can I save this video so I can see it on my iPad when I do not have internet access?
Debra Meyer July 27th, 2017

Is there a closed caption version of these videos if not then they are useless to me