Question About Hand Piecing
 

Do you use a running stitch or a back stitch? I decided to do my Farmer's Wife sampler as a hand piecing project and don't know which is more secure. I did a couple of test blocks before actually starting and I'm finding it harder to get my 1/4 inch seam and match the seams than when I stitch by machine. Hoping it will get easier with practice.

I used the running stitch, I think it is your preference and practice always helps! Happy 4th:)

I have always done a running stitch when I hand piece, they were a GFG and a patchwork top. And to keep my seams at 1/4 inch I drew a line with a pencil before I sewed - only on one piece after a while but in the beginning I did both pieces so I could make sure I was catching both sides in the right area. Matching I did with pins and then making sure my needle went thru where the pin was. It does take a bit of practice - but it became much easier with time.

I do a few stitches running stitch and then do a back stitch. Similar to this http://www.roserushbrooke.com/how-to-hand-piece-1.html You do get quicker and it does get easier.

I stitch will a running stitch with a back stitch about every 4-5 stitches. When hand piecing prep work leads to precision... Use a fine point pencil to draw your 1/4th inch seam lines and use pins. Jinny Beyer is a designer who hand pieces Fabulous quilts! Visit her website for hints, tips and tutorials.

This summarizes it nicely.

I draw the stitching lines on everything - probably not necessary - but my blocks end up the way I want them to by doing this.

I have always done a back stitch - i guess because i learned making clothes for my daughter and wanted to be sure of solid seams......can you tell me how many stitches per inch approximately do you ladies do with your running stitch?? I have seen Jinny Beyer do this with her beautiful quilts - so i KNOW a running stitch works.... i have just been afraid to change.

Any suggestions for a pattern for my first hand piecing project? I have an underground railroad sampler cut out and ready to sew, but wasn't sure if I should try something else first.

The Farmer's Wife sampler is my first hand piecing project. I'm starting with the easier blocks. I don't plan to do all of them but will decide which ones to include as I go along. I recently bought Tula Pink's book and thought it might be a good hand project. However I don't have any plans for that one yet.