My favorite day is the first Tuesday of the month when I gather with my quilting friends for Paper Piecing Palooza! This is an open sewing day at my local shop, Sun Valley Quilts, and most of us have Judy Niemeyer patterns in progress. Now that I am back to working full time, I can’t make it to every session, but I took time off to quilt this week. Self care is important, ya’ll!
Sew Day
I chose the Quiltworx pattern, Andromeda, for my next project.
I am using Island Batik fabrics to make a lovely red, white and blue version. This is my December Ambassador project featuring a brand new fabric collection, so stay tuned for the full reveal.
The other Judy Niemeyer project that I work on during Paper Piecing Palooza is the pattern Dragon Star. A friend gave me her kit, which features a southwestern color palette.
The Dragon Star has been in progress for about two years. Maybe 2023 will see a finish?!? What is your oldest quilting project?
Paper Piecing Tools
Foundation paper piecing, like many quilting techniques, has its ardent fans and others who absolutely hate it. FPP is a great way to get precise points and intricate shapes that are too difficult for traditional piecing. However, it does waste fabric and can take longer than other methods. Plus, you have the extra step of removing paper at the end. I think the time spent is well worth it when you have stunning results!
If you are new to foundation piecing, I recommend taking a class because it helps to get immediate feedback. If you need a refresher, please watch my video series for a demonstration.
There are some tools that you need to have the most success with paper piecing.
- Glue stick – I typically grab washable school glue, but you can find special paper-to-fabric glue in most shops
- Add-A-Quarter ruler – essential for trimming your pieces in preparation for paper piecing
- Travel cutting mat and rotary cutter – it helps to have a small workstation set up next to your machine since there is alot of trimming involved.
Note, these are affiliate links, which give me a small commission if you decide to purchase.
So that’s my Paper Piecing Palooza update! I have 64 triangle units ready to make star blocks. I can’t wait to show you the finished quilt.
Put Your Foot Down
But first, we need a linky party! Please add your link below so I can take a peek at your current projects.
Hi Andy, I like FPP but only the fairly small and easy projects. I used to make my quilt labels using 4″ blocks. I don’t think that I have the patience for making a huge project (of most kind!) Thanks for the linking party. I’m looking forward to seeing your finishes.
Thanks for stopping by, Andree. Small pieces definitely drags the process out, but quilting is fun at every size!
Thank you for this wonderful post and video. Though I’ve been using this technique for a while now, I enjoy seeing how others who are true quilters, follow the process. That is a stunning pattern and I will enjoy seeing it come to life.
Thanks so much for visiting! FPP is a favorite technique of mine.
What lovely PP projects you have on the go. Looking forward to seeing those finishes.
Thank you! I am enjoying working on them.