I am trying pp-ing for the first time.
The pattern I downloaded has dark lines and light lines.

I know I'm to sew on the light lines.
But what are the dark lines for?
Am I supposed to cut the pattern apart?
I've googled and watched youtube videos etc but no one says what the dark lines are for.

Here's the pattern:
http://www.paperpanache.com/free/simplereqs/paw.htm

Thanks

Yes, you are correct about cutting it apart. Notice that the numbering in each of the sections starts at 1 again, so each section needs to be done on its own and then sewn together for the full block. Please post a picture of the block when you get it sewn together.

Thanks Nancy.
I kind of thought so but I wanted to be sure.

be sure to add that quarter inch to those dark lines after cutting the paper. Also around the outside.

How clever of you to have figured it out when you are new to Pping. Of course, it is also clever to ask rather than blundering along.

the dark lines are the sections you cut them and when you sew each section thats where you put it back together each section is marked 1 threw 7 or 8 add the 1/4 inch to the dark lines and outside edges
hope this helps

You don't have to add the SA to the paper.

Just make sure you have enough fabric overhanging the edges of each section. Always sew, though, to the end of the fabric or at least the 1/4", even if it's off the paper.

And when you're all done sewing the pieces to that particular section, you can trim it leaving a nice, clean 1/4" all around - measuring from the edge of the paper.

The benefit is that there will be no paper caught in your seam allowances that you have to pick out later.

Yes and picking the paper off is the worse for me.

Remember to use a small stitch when sewing: it makes removing the paper easier.

When preparing your fabrics for sewing, I measure each piece at it's widest point and add 1/2" and cut strips.....avoids wasting fabric

thanks everyone.
I'm keeping track of all these ideas