Once you get the hang of remembering the top of the paper with the lines is the mirror image, and that the fabric side is the top, you are over the biggest hurdle :wink: :D:D:D

Even with as much PP as I do, I still print out an extra copy to use as templates for cutting my fabric...those angles still will throw me off LOL

What a fantastic tutorial on PP. Very detailed. Thank you

Thanks for the glue tip. I always hated doing the first piece. I think the glue will calm my fears.

Amma, every time I see your tutorial, I notice more aspects. Have to try again soon.

We have snow warning for ?? inches, so now that I got my supplies in I don't have a reason not to sew.

TTUL

Sounds like a winner !!!! Also, thanks for the glue idea. MUST have heard that before but just did not pick up on it.

I love paper piecing and this tutorial is great. Hopefully those that are somewhat afraid of the technique will try it. The end results are wonderful.

Thank you everyone :D:D:D

Hi I am struggling through paper piecing on a bird quilt. I am soooo discouraged. I bought the backyard birds book, transferred the patterns and really struggle with it. I guess the birds weren't the best beginning project to start with. I can't wait till it is done since I have to finish what I start. Tearing the paper is one of the worst parts. by the time I get it torn off I have distorted the stitches. :( Its just printer paper but too tough I guess. And the patterns in the book are reversed so I do more ripping out than sewing from confusion. I guess they should have put the pictured pattern in reverse so it would be easier to follow. I hate to print them all out in reverse so I can ease up on the tension, but I may have to. What a chore this has been. I get so much more done without paper piecing, but the results are really awsome if I can suffer through it. :) Any tips would be appreciated. I have wasted so much fabric trying to make it fit in the spots.
Oh well. I will like it when its done.

Have you shortened your stitch length ? That really helps make the paper rip right out without much distortion :wink: Also if you need more run a finger nail along the stitch edge to help "rip" the paper

Sharon is right, fold the paper over and run your nail along it and if you have shortened your stitch length, it should zip right off. All I ever use is copy paper :wink:

Also, if you cut up one of your foundation papers to use as a guide, like I described in the tute, you may find you waste less fabric, and can cut out most of your pieces before you start sewing. I just stack them underneath the cut foundation pieces, and chain piece the blocks.

On the back side of one of the patterns, mark each piece with a big X. Then cut out each piece, these will be your templates, be SURE that you use it as a template with the X side up. All fabric should also be right side up. This will not really apply to this block, but it will to many others, so it is a good habit to start out with. Cut your fabric 3/8” to a 1/2" bigger then the template, this will give you wiggle room. After this block you may find that cutting them exact will work for you, if you are unsure, continue cutting them larger. The last round of the block, I always cut them at 1/2" larger just in case when squaring them up.

Remember, it is really the printed side of the foundation papers that is in reverse... that side is ONLY for sewing and I just ignore it other wise... The side with the fabric, is what you want to match up to the picture of the finished piece. I think paying too much attention to the printed side of the foundation papers, is what throws everyone off...

If you are still having trouble, let me know and I would be glad to help you some more :D:D:D