Plan!
Note: Download
Foundation Masters (PDF file). Masters are printed reversed and
are meant to be traced or photocopied. Make the number of copies called
for on each foundation master.
Brenda introduces you to the world of foundation piecing
(also known as paper piecing) with this cheerful Christmas tree quilt.
It's small enough that you can finish it in time for the holidays. Before
starting, be sure to read through Piece
by Piece, Part 1.
Three important things to remember: 1. The foundations
are printed in reverse (because your fabric will be sewn on the unprinted
side), 2. You must follow the number order when sewing, and 3. There
are no seam allowances on the paper foundation. Allow at least 1/4"
of fabric beyond the perimeter of the block and do not trim along
the paper's edge.
Prepare!
When stitching log cabin-type designs, it's easiest to work with pre-cut
straight-of-grain strips. Traditional piecing calls for cutting strips
1/2" wider than your finished width, but in foundation piecing,
it's nice to have some extra width as "insurance". Strips
can slip slightly under the foundations when you're sewing, and a generous
width keeps you happy.
For this design, cut strips at least 1" wide for
the narrow pieces and at least 1 1/2" wide for the wider ones from
your fabrics, as indicated in the cutting instructions. Cut strips to
length (at least 3/4" longer than the finished piece) as you go.
For the packages, (made from 8 assorted prints and mottles),
follow the foundation coloring guide to determine the width and length
of your strips. You'll enjoy choosing your own colors.
Cut!
Note: Start by cutting
the number of strips indicated below, but don't be alarmed if you
need more. Our yardage requirements provide for shrinkage and a
variety of piecing approaches, so you'll have plenty of fabric to
work with. |
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Cream mottle
... 4 strips 1" x width of fabric (WOF)
... 5 strips 1 1/2" x WOF
Red solid
... 17 squares 1" x 1"
Green mottle
... 7 strips 1" x WOF
3 strips 1 1/2" x WOF
8 assorted prints & mottles (see Prepare!)
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Green check
*2 strips 1 1/4" x width of fabric (WOF), cut in half
to make 4 half-WOF strips
3 strips 1" x WOF
2 strips 1 1/2" x WOF
Green/black stripe
*4 strips 3 1/2" x 23", cut on lengthwise grain
2 strips 1 1/2" x WOF
*Cut first. |
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