How are paper pieced patterns made?
 

How are paper pieced patterns made? Is there a way I can make them myself? Is there special software or something used?

I'd like to make my own from pictures or photos if at all possible.

Thanks in advance!

Good question. Will be watching this. I'd like to learn this also.

Give one a try and you will quickly see. They usually start with a center piece and then it is add one seam at a time. Then either 4 or 6 are sewn together.

There are software programs, and books with cds so you can print your own. I like Electric Quilt 7. You always have the option to paper piece.

carol doak is the queen of paper piecing, IMHO :) ...here's two links for you. first one is to her 'how to convert' pdf, the second link is to her blog. have fun ..

http://www.caroldoak.com/userfiles/f...,47,78_QNM.pdf

http://www.caroldoak.com/weblog/

this was my first thought as well. my suggestion is to start with simple designs... it can get complicated and it's easy to not put in enough seams

I've designed my own paper-pieced patterns in EQ, but you DO need to understand the concept of paper-piecing because EQ can't tell that. You have to be able to envision the piecing order when you design.

I've made them myself. You cannot always make pp patterns for all designs but once you understand the method, you can certainly make them for some patterns. Sometimes one block will be more than one section, you might have to piece these sections separately, then together. Good luck!

I got this from the board awhile ago...haven't had a lot of time to use it but it might be a good place to start...and it's free!

http://quiltassistant.com/free-quilt-design-software

Thanks very much for these links...particularly the 'how to convert' link. When I have more time, I'll definitely be scouring that link with a fine-toothed comb as I have a pattern now that uses templates that I'd like to convert.

I've been PP for years. It's easy for me & all I do (have 2 full file cabinet drawers full). I have sworn not to do any more! When I see even traditional patterns, I figure out & draw a master & print out on thin paper. My old computer had a great word processor where I could make squares, etc of any size but this IMac G5 has a lousy processor (pages) that I HATE.. Turned my hair even grayer... so manually draw out master pattern.

Not directly related to topic so apologize in advance but you can get a program for a mac that will let you use windows - Mr stitchnripper does this on his mac laptop from time to time.

Thank you SuziSew. I followed your link. I think this is something I can use. Just one more example of learning something useful from the Board!

You are very welcome. There are so many talented and knowledgeable people on the board I'm never sure when to post, so it's nice to know that I could share something useful.