 |
Join Brenda Groelz as she introduces you to the
fun world of foundation piecing. Also known as paper piecing, this
is a great method for piecing accurate points, odd angles and tiny
pieces. Part 1 (McCall's
Quick Quilts, November, 2003) covered the basics, trimming tips,
and Brenda's favorite tools. Part
2 (McCall's Quick Quilts, January, 2004) covered sewing
assembly-style. Each article in this series will review the basics
(for those just joining us) and will introduce a new topic.
|
This issue, we work with half-square triangles. Pre-cutting
makes quick work of piecing by taking the guesswork out of placing the
fabrics. It also ensures that your pieces are on-grain after sewing. Read
through the following steps and tips, then try your hand at foundation
piecing triangles with Delft Blue,
an elegant new quilt that Brenda designed just for you.
A Place white
and blue triangles right sides together, and place behind #1 position,
with wrong side of white triangle to the unprinted side of the foundation.
Be sure that both triangles extend approximately 1/4" into the #2
position. There should also be at least 1/4" of fabric extending
beyond the edges of the paper foundation.
B Hold fabrics
in place and turn printed side up. Stitch along line between #1 and #2
positions, using short stitch length (15-18 stitches per inch). Start
and end 2-3 stitches beyond the end of the line. Remove from machine and
clip all threads.
C Using scissors
placed between paper and fabric, trim seam allowance to 1/4" if needed.
Just eyeball it. It doesn't have to be perfect!
D Press seam
allowance flat from fabric side, then flip blue triangle to cover #2 position
and press again. Note: If you have photocopied the foundation,
avoid touching the printed side with iron. Toner will melt and transfer
to your iron and fabrics.
|