I use the cheapest copy paper I can find, and don't usually have a problem with the stitches coming out, but another suggestion I have, since you have shortened the stitch length, is to perforate the paper before stitching, then go ahead and sew your fabrics on. You don't say how much you shortened your stitch length, so that might be another possibility. My machine's automatic length is 2.8, I shorten it to 1.5.

This is a subject that has lots of opinions. A lot of people say they use copy paper with no problem. Every time I tried to use this paper with all the proper stitch adjustments and pulling the block a little to stretch the paper abit to tear it away from the seam, It always loosened the stitching. I find copy paper just to thick for PP. There are some things I feel I just have to spend money on. PP paper is one of them. It is like tracing paper and tears away very easily from the stitching with no problem. Please do not wet the paper trying to remove it. You will have a paper mash mess.

Try running a chop stick along the edge of the stitching to pre- tear the paper then gently pull the finished block (like stretching it VERY GENTLY). this should help to remove the paper.

I also use a seam ripper to gently work out the little pieces that stick in the corners of stitching intersections.
Hope this helps a little. Don't give up.
Stitch length = 1.5
peace

I use copy paper, however, I never shorten my stitches. That just grabs the paper tighter. Also, I start tearing the paper in the middle and go towards the ends.

I use copy/printer paper - have never done muslin - and don't shorten my stitches. I run my fingertip under the paper along the seam line or use a letter opener, my Purple Thang or even a table knife and have never had a problem.

I use regular copy paper & do not shorten the stitch from the machine's default of 2.5. After stitching, I fold the paper at the stitching line. Then I run the back of my seam ripper along the stitching line to 'cut' through the paper. I gently pull the paper along the line to get it off. If there are any little bits of paper still caught under the stitching, I gently use tweezers to pry the paper out from under the stitches. I've never had a problem with the stitches tearing.

spritz, run a metal nail file next to the stitches, and tear it off! don't worry about the tiny bits in the seams if your stitches are so loose they are pulling out!

you really should use a smaller stitch...to make up the thickness of the paper, once you remove your paper, your stitches will be too large and gaping!

I had the exact same issue when I first started PPing. First I switched to vellum and was much happier because it tears easier. Then I switched techniques and now I use the fold-and-stitch method - no ripping! Instead of stitching the line on the paper, fold the paper on that line and stitch right next to it. Trim with an add-a-quarter ruler and you're done. Vellum works great for this technique because you can see through it, so you can see if you're folding on the line.

Granny Dean,

Yes, you surely can soak the blocks in warm water. I use copy paper also and it works perfectly well when I soak it. Give it a try, you will be pleased (I hope.) But I recently tried a method I learned on this board from Peckish. She told of folding the paper on the line and stitching right next to it. That way the paper is never attached to the fabric. I do us a bit of glue to hold the pieces I am sewing though. I find that using pins distorts the fabric. Good luck and please share with us a pic of the finished product.

WHOOPS!! I just looked at the post above mine and guess what. It's from Peckish. So you are in good hands now. She is a pro.