grammyp

Not for me. I still do it, but can't say it is as relaxing as regular piecing to me.

amma

I think it is easier if you can chain piece the blocks.
I use a printed out foundation to use as templates, stack the fabric with the individual templates and sit and sew. I will get more confused trying to sew a whole block at a time. :D:D:D

Ninnie

Amma has the right idea. I like to get my pieces cut, and then sit down with a stack of patterns, and sew the first 2 pieces on. Then I can get up and stretch awhile. and iron them before going back to do the next piece. It does get easier and faster.But it is so worth it when you see the end results. Have fun with it!!

raptureready

BIG TRICK LEARNED DIRECTLY FROM CAROL DOAK:

Take a piece of strapping tape and tape the card you use to fold on the line to the ruler. Line it up where it's supposed to be and tape it to one end. When you're paper piecing, put the card along the line, fold, bring the ruler over, cut. VERY VERY EASY!

If you use a piece of template plastic for your card it never frays or becomes soft on the edge.

If you invest in an Add-a-Quarter ruler (or Add-an-Eighth for tiny projects) it really will help. That's a ruler with a "lip" on it that's specifically designed for paper piecing.

brookemarie19

I,ve tried it once and have to say that I don't know if I will again. It was very hard and am scared to do it now.

sidmona

With PP you either love it or hate it. I happen to love it. It does get easier with time. Just relax and take your time with it.

BKrenning

It does get faster but a lot depends on the pattern you are paper piecing to begin with. For those that hate paper piecing or think they'll never get it--try an easier pattern. Don't start off with a Mariner's Compass. Start with Square in a Square or Log Cabin--chunky style--not the 10 layer 6" block. Odd angles still throw me off & I've been paper piecing for 6 years. I have found it speeds up my process to pre-cut my pieces to about the size I need and lay them next to my machine--chain piecing style. Chain sew several blocks and then cut all the chains & press out your seam with either a finger presser stick thing (forgot what it's called) or my favorite--the mini Clover iron. Have a pressing area right next to your machine so you don't have to keep getting up.

I don't use the fancy rulers to trim the seam allowances. I have my foundations all pre-folded so I just turn the block upside down, fold the paper back and eyeball trim with sharp little scissors that had better stay right by my machine or there is HE-double hockey sticks to pay!

I want to try the freezer paper method where you don't sew through the paper but haven't done it yet. Gotta get my inkjet printer hooked back up to print out the foundations. Not a good idea to run freezer paper through a laser printer.

iltoaz

Tried pineapple coasters and it was a total disaster. Don't know if I'll try again.

amandasgramma

I just tried MY second block of PPing last night! It IS easier. I haven't had a class, but I went to the tutorial on this site and found a hint that REALLY helps. It involves using a credit card....check it out!

Minda

What is the freezer paper method??