It's been a long while since I did any paper piecing. I'm a bit uncoordinated and have a heckuva time getting all the pieces right side up, etc., etc. Before my one attempt into the paper piecing world, I bought paper specifically designed for paper piecing (from Nancy's Notions catalog, I think). Anyway, if I recall correctly, I only drew the pattern once, then, following along the drawn lines, I sewed through several paper thicknesses (old needle -- no thread) on my sewing machine so that I could use the needle perforations for several blocks instead of having to draw the lines repeatedly. Hope I'm making myself clear ... I've learned that just because I know what I'm talking about does not mean that anyone else does.

Wow, thats what I love about this site, ask one question and get many different answers!!! It seems there are many techniques out there and we each have a personal preference.What I ended up doing was sewing through several sheets of paper with an old needle and no thread and that worked for me and I understood you perfectly weezie! I wont be buying the vellum or printers paper anytime soon, only because since I got laid off I have to really watch my pennies...but once I am able to I will try it. :D

I have only ever used photocopier paper - LOL listen to this - I do have some of Carol Doaks paper also but I always forget to use it. I seem to be having lots of special moments coming my way these days. What am I like. :lol:

Tisha

I would rather paper piece with regular copy paper. I've done the freezer paper copies too. It's easy to tear off if you just run a large pin down the seams before you tear them off. I've never tried copies of the freezer paper on my printer. I just drew them out with a maker. It was supposed to be for a class and she wanted us to have 3 copies. It's for the fan dance quilt I've been working on. The teacher wanted us to learn to fold the paper back and sew just off the edge of the paper so there wouldn't be anything you had to tear. Of course it was during a snow storm and we couldn't go and paid the $45 for the book and copies. No refunds were offered. Boo Hoo

thy copying only one then staple several sheets together. Then you take it to your sewing machine and sew the pattern with no thread. Do this enough to make your eighty copies.

I didn't have a light box but put one together using my sewing machine lamp and used a plastic tote. Worked so great I won't ever need to buy a box.

I use paper called UV/ULTRAII translucent printing paper. It says it's 8.5 M weight. Staples printed the paper piecing pattern

himom122

That is a really great idea to use. Thanks

Most of the time I paper piece using very lightweight interfacing (with the pattern traced on) that I just leave in place. This works great for wall hangings or hotpads, etc. Not to good for baby quilts or things that will be handled a lot (it makes it too stiff, IMO).

One thing that I've just learned in the worst way possible is NOT to use a ballpoint pen to trace the pattern (what what I thinking??). Not only can you see it from the front, but it has a way of bleeding onto the fabric even after it's been 'removed' -- and no amount of soaking, hairspray, etc, etc, will get it all out.

I've just thrown out a lovely quilt because of this. Completely stupid on my part, for sure. :cry:

Well, now you know not to - thanks for sharing -