Mastering Foundation Paper Piecing with Freezer Paper: A Quilter's Guide

August 27, 2024

Foundation paper piecing (FPP) is a beloved technique in the quilting community, offering a way to create intricate designs with precision. This method involves printing or drawing a pattern onto a piece of paper, then sewing fabric onto the paper following the pattern's lines in a specific order. After all the fabric pieces are sewn onto the paper, the paper is removed, leaving a beautifully precise block trimmed to the desired size.

Cabanas is an FPP pattern

What is Foundation Paper Piecing?

Foundation paper piecing is a quilting technique where a pattern is printed or drawn onto paper. Fabric pieces are then sewn onto the paper in a specific sequence, following the pattern's lines. Once all pieces are in place, the paper is carefully removed, resulting in a block that is trimmed to the desired size. This technique is especially popular for creating intricate designs and patterns with high precision.

Introducing Freezer Paper in Foundation Paper Piecing

A variation of the traditional foundation paper piecing method involves using freezer paper as the foundation instead of regular paper. This method offers several advantages, including ease of use and better results.

In this piece, you can see the seam through the patch.

Carefully roll the fabric away from the freezer paper.

Benefits of Using Freezer Paper

Using freezer paper in foundation paper piecing offers several benefits:

Reusable: Freezer paper can often be reused, making it a cost-effective choice for quilters.
Easy to Remove: The paper is easy to remove without distorting the fabric, ensuring a clean finish.
Precision: This method helps maintain the precision and accuracy of your quilting projects, especially for complex designs.

Press the fabric to the dark side and press with an iron so that the patch is secure.

Foundation paper piecing with freezer paper is an excellent technique for quilters looking to achieve intricate designs with precision. By following these steps, you can master this method and create stunning quilt blocks with ease. Whether you're a seasoned quilter or a beginner, incorporating freezer paper into your FPP projects can enhance your quilting experience and results.