I make all my string quilts on paper. I leave the paper in until the blocks are sewn together. I then remove only the papers from the joining seams. (I leave the rest of the paper on until the top is completely sewn together). Hope this makes sense to you. I like the stability the paper gives. Also when you remove the paper from the joining seams, it helps the seams lay flat when you press them.

Anita

My sister made whole quilts leaving the paper on until it was pieced. Then she sat and took the paper off. What a job, but it worked better.

Have done it both ways and it is OK.

It is so good to hear from quilters who have already "been there"! It made logical sense in my mind, but I'm glad to know it works in the real world. :) Thanks again.

Paper is a pain.. Ive been there, done that and hates the lil bits everywhere.. I buy super cheap thin, flimsy muslin or neutral cotton fabric.. it is soooooooooooooooooo much cleaner but it does add a tiny bit of weight.. but for less than 99 cents a yard ill take that over hours of tearing away paper..

After sewing the strips on the paper I trim the block 1/4" wider on all sides. For example, if the paper squares are 10", I trim the block 10.5" with the paper centered leaving 1/4" on each side. This way when I sew the block together the paper isn't in the seam allowance and it is easier to remove later.

I agree with several others and use a thin muslin, then I do not have to deal with the paper tearing. It does not really add any weight to the finished quilt and keeps everything stabilized.

I've never used paper -- I use leftover fabric for the base. I like scrappy so it doesn't matter if the base is all the same fabric.

Same with me. Keep stitch length short throughout piecing whole thing to make paper removal easier.

Isn't that why there is television? TV time is paper pulling off time! LOL

Anita