Oh, Girls, thank you so much for all of your input. I appreciate your suggestions and advice. I love the look of the string piecing, and it's fun to use up scraps, but I just was so frustrated with the paper removal. I'll try some cheap muslin next time. And, there will be a next time. I have loads of scraps!!!

You can also use the QAYG method for string quilting. Sew the scraps right onto your batting.

I love making string quilts; have made at least three large ones using Bonnie Hunter's patterns. Have never had an issue removing either phone book paper (my favorite) or just regular printer paper. Following Bonnie's guidelines, I sew with a shortened stitch (about 1.5 on my Bernina) AND a denim needle-size 90/14. The shortened stitch and larger needle duo makes it super easy to remove paper; in fact sometimes the paper wants to perforate and fall off before I finish a block, so I have to increase the stitch length a little :).

If you're not already using a 90/14 needle, give it a try and see if it makes paper removal easier for you.

Margaret

Most of the time, I will use $ wax paper. Comes off very easy! It also sometimes will perforate before I'm ready---but it works great for me. I like it and using newspaper or phone books for my string quilts.

Currently making a spider web quilt with papers from Missouri Star Quilt Co.....having no problems at all removing papers!!

Thanks for the suggestion on the denim needle. Another good thing to try for next time.

Question on this one. When you sew the blocks together, are the seams too thick since they have the batting in them? Just wondering.

While I have not done a string quilt, I do a lot of paper piecing. I use copy paper and when I want to remove the paper I use a moistened (semi wet not dry) Qtip. I run the Qtip down the stitching on the paper side - let it sit for a few seconds - the paper under the stitches soften while the rest of the paper is dry. It removes easily using this method.

I also love doing foundation piecing and sew directly onto my batting. I do decorative stitching in place of hand quilting. Love watching how each block turns out.

I love this idea!