The Basics of Paper Piecing: A Beginner’s Guide

Whether you're just starting out or need a quick refresher, here’s how to follow any of our Thimble Art dimensional quilt block patterns using paper piecing:

🧶 What You’ll Need:

• Your printed pattern
• Fabric scraps or pre-cut pieces
• Sewing machine
• Iron and ironing board
• Thin pins
• Scissors or rotary cutter

✂️ Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Follow the Pattern's Numbering
   Each section on the pattern is numbered (1, 2, 3, etc.) in the order you’ll sew them.
   A fabric key is included in a box next to the pattern showing which fabric to use for each section (e.g. background, body, head).
   
   
2. Fabric Goes on the Back of the Pattern
   Always place your fabric pieces on the unprinted (blank) side of the paper. The printed side (with the numbers and lines) will face up as you sew.
   
   
3. Start with Area 1
   Cut a piece of fabric large enough to fully cover area 1, including seam allowance.
   Place it right side up on the back of the pattern, covering area 1.
   
   
4. Add Fabric for Area 2
   Take the fabric for area 2 and place it right sides together with the fabric for area 1.
   Line up the edge so that once sewn, the piece will flip over and cover area 2.
   
   
5. Pin or Hold in Place
   Use a pin (or glue stick if preferred) to hold the two fabrics in position on the back side of the pattern.
   
   
6. Shorten Your Stitch Length
   Set your sewing machine stitch length to 1.3–1.5 (shorter than usual). This helps perforate the paper, making it easier to tear off later.
   
   
7. Sew Along the Line Between Area 1 and 2
   On the printed side of the paper (top side), sew exactly on the line between section 1 and 2. Start and stop a few stitches beyond the line for security.
   
   
8. Trim the Seam Allowance
   On the fabric side, carefully fold the paper back along the stitched seam. Trim the fabric seam allowance to about ¼ inch to reduce bulk and keep your block crisp.
   
   
9. Flip and Press
   Turn the fabric for area 2 over so it covers its section completely. Use an iron to press it flat.
   
   
10. Repeat for the Remaining Areas
    Follow the same process:

• Place next fabric piece right sides together
• Pin
• Sew on the printed side
• Trim seam allowance
• Flip and press
• Trim if needed

11. Trim the Block
    Once all areas are sewn and pressed, use scissors or a rotary cutter to trim the block along the outer dotted line. This gives you a clean, finished quilt block.

🧵 Final Tips:

• Always double-check fabric placement before sewing.
• Use light-weight printer paper for easy removal.
• Try a seam roller for quick pressing if you’re not near an iron.