Foundation Paper  Piecing  Paper foundation piecing has become quite popular in recent years. Its a great method for getting accurately pieced blocks. It is an especially good method for piecing miniature quilts. Although not all block patterns will work using this method quite a few will if you break them down into units.

Basic Paper Foundation Piecing Directions
	Trim around paper pattern leaving a little excess. The block will be trimmed down to size when the piecing is complete.
	Pin fabric for piece #1, wrong side up. Making sure fabric is big enough to cover beyond the edge of the pattern piece.
	Trim around outside edges and inner edge leaving 1/4" seam allowance beyond pattern piece line.
	Line up inside edge for piece #2 with edge of piece #1. Sew as shown.
	Flip piece over and press. Trim as before leaving 1/4" seam allowance around edges.
	Add piece #3 as before.
	Flip, press, and trim as before.
	Add piece #4
	Flip, press, and trim.
Add pieces #5 and #6.
	Trim off around block on the finished block line. I prefer to remove the paper at this point as I find it easier to do. Others believe that you should wait till the blocks are set together in a quilt top.

© Copyright 1997 Graham Enterprises