Hey there, fellow art enthusiasts! I’m Robert Kline, and if you’re as passionate about quilting as I am, you’re in for a treat. Today, we’re diving into the world of freezer paper piecing – a game-changer that will transform your quilting journey.
Imagine this: perfectly pieced quilt blocks without the frustration of tearing tiny paper bits. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, with freezer paper piecing, that dream becomes a reality!
Why I Ditched Traditional Paper Piecing
Quilting magazine cover with a paper pieced quilt designed and made by Rebecca Bryan.
This stunning quilt, featured on the cover of a quilting magazine, was a labor of love…and paper tearing!
Let me tell you a story. I once poured my heart and soul into a vibrant quilt that made it to the cover of a prestigious quilting magazine. A true accomplishment! But behind the scenes, it was a different story. Ripping out the foundation paper was a tedious nightmare. My fingers ached, and I swore off paper piecing forever…or so I thought!
The Freezer Paper Piecing Revelation
Enter freezer paper piecing – a technique that changed my quilting life! A quilting friend, probably tired of my paper-ripping woes, introduced me to this magic method, and I haven’t looked back since.
Freezer Paper Piecing vs. Regular Paper Piecing: What’s the Difference?
The beauty of freezer paper piecing lies in its simplicity and reusability. Unlike traditional foundation paper piecing, where you’re stuck with single-use papers, freezer paper templates can be used over and over again. This means less waste, less time, and happier fingers!
Here’s a breakdown:
Traditional Paper Piecing:
- Templates: Single-use, often tedious to remove
- Process: Can be time-consuming, especially when removing paper
- Results: Beautiful, but the paper removal process can be a pain
Freezer Paper Piecing:
- Templates: Reusable, easy to peel off
- Process: Streamlined and efficient, saves time and effort
- Results: Equally stunning results, with the added bonus of convenience
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Freezer Paper Piecing
Ready to experience the magic firsthand? Let’s dive into the tutorial!
Gathering Your Supplies
Before we begin, gather the following:
- Printed Templates: You can find countless free and paid quilt block patterns online.
- Freezer Paper: Available in rolls at most grocery stores.
- Pencil or Pen: For tracing your templates.
- Ruler: For precise tracing and cutting.
- Scissors: Dedicated fabric scissors and paper scissors are ideal.
- Iron and Ironing Board: For adhering the freezer paper to your fabric.
- Fabric: Choose your favorite fabrics in coordinating colors and patterns.
- Sewing Machine and Thread: For stitching your pieced units together.
Prepping Your Freezer Paper Templates
A box of freezer paper and a printable template.
- Trace Your Templates: Place your chosen quilt block template onto the dull side of the freezer paper. Use a pencil or pen to trace the template outline.
- Mark Your Seam Allowances: Decide whether you’ll add seam allowances (typically 1/4″) while tracing or when trimming later.
- Cut Out Your Templates: Carefully cut out the traced templates using paper scissors.
- Score Your Folding Lines: Fold or lightly score along the seam lines indicated on your template. This will make it easier to fold the fabric during the piecing process.
Piecing Your First Unit
Pressing the freezer paper to the fabric with an iron.
- Ironing the Template: Place your first fabric piece wrong side up on your ironing board. Position the freezer paper template on top, shiny side down, aligning it with your fabric edge. Press with a hot, dry iron to adhere the template.
- Adding the Second Fabric: Place your second fabric piece right side down on top of the first, aligning the raw edges. Fold back the freezer paper template to reveal the seam line.
- Stitching the Seam: Stitch along the seam line, keeping your stitches close to but not through the freezer paper.
- Pressing the Seam: Open the fabric pieces and press the seam allowance flat.
Completing Your Block
Pieced unit
- Trimming Seam Allowances: Fold the freezer paper template back to expose each seam allowance. Trim the excess fabric to a consistent 1/4″.
- Adding Remaining Pieces: Continue adding fabric pieces according to your chosen quilt block pattern, following steps 1-4 above.
- Peeling Off the Template: Once your block is complete, gently peel off the freezer paper template. It should come off effortlessly!
Tips for Success
- Start with Simple Blocks: If you’re new to freezer paper piecing, begin with basic blocks before tackling more intricate designs.
- Press Carefully: Avoid ironing directly on the shiny side of the freezer paper, as this can leave residue on your iron and ironing board.
- Experiment with Different Fabrics: Freezer paper piecing works beautifully with a wide range of fabrics, from cottons to batiks.
Unleash Your Creativity
Scrappy Whirligig Image
With freezer paper piecing as your secret weapon, you’ll be amazed at the intricate and eye-catching quilts you can create. Explore different quilt block patterns, experiment with color combinations, and let your creativity soar!
Remember, the world of quilting is filled with endless possibilities. Embrace new techniques like freezer paper piecing and discover the joy of creating handcrafted masterpieces.
And don’t forget to share your stunning creations and connect with fellow quilting enthusiasts on the Robert Kline Art website. Let’s inspire each other and celebrate the beauty of handmade!