Paper Piecing Class

My friends, Lori & Elinor, had asked me to teach them paper piecing (traditional) because I talk about it so much.    We got a day scheduled (5/27) and then I offered the class to our ladies small group as some in there are crafty and some are interested in quilting.  We added Shelly & Gwen.

Lori really wanted easy so I chose a simple block that when put together in a set of 4 blocks makes a great design.   The block is from Carol Doak’s book, 300 Paper-Pieced Quilt Blocks.

The patterns printed in the book make 4″ blocks but because the book also includes a CD, I can choose any finished size and print them from my computer.   Love the technology!!

I provided the patterns for everyone printed on pre-shrunk freezer paper.  My favorite foundation to use.

I also showed them some projects I’ve made using paper-piecing to show the accuracy one can achieve with that technique.    I was happy with the way the class went and time with girlfriends is always good.   Gwen & Shelly had never made a quilt block before and were thrilled with their first ones.

Here are their blocks —

I don’t have other pictures because I stayed busy teaching.

It was so much fun!!    These can be finished as pillows or wallhangings for them.  The blocks (the 4 sections sewn together) are 12″ finished.

I hope to have other classes in the future.  Currently, I’m planning a fabric dyeing class for this summer.  And this fall I’m teaching paper piecing without picking paper to our quilt guild.