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August 31, 2010

What is foundation piecing?

Quilting is never quiet accomplished properly if you don't master the art of foundation piecing. This highly efficient technique enables you to quilt rapidly with fewer problems. To understand foundation...



Quilting is never quiet accomplished properly if you don't master the art of foundation piecing. This highly efficient technique enables you to quilt rapidly with fewer problems. To understand foundation piecing, we have to first consider a few of its characteristics.

Foundation piecing:

Foundation piecing is a method in which quilt blocks can be made by sewing the pieces to a foundation of fabric or paper. The prime reason for engaging in foundation quilting is to secure a good base for your odd shaped fabrics and designs. This also helps you to simply your work manifold. By assembling the blocks on the foundation, you also ensure the safety of your fragile fabrics as by adding definite strength and stability to the delicate materials. Foundation piecing is known by another popular name, paper piecing. This method dates back to 1990s, though it has been revised a good deal by new quilters. This method is also used as an alternative for the traditional template piecing. Many consider this as an easier and highly efficient method. However, if not mastered accurately, this can well be challenging technique to master in quilting. Both beginners and experts use this method satisfactorily and vouch for its simplicity. The best part of this method is that you can use both fabrics and papers as a foundation for your patch fabrics.

Few considerations:

For having a near perfect foundation piecing technique, you have to make accurate choices between the two types of foundations material, namely, permanent material and temporary material. The former stay in the quilt forever, while the later can be removed after the blocks are joined. You need to weigh both their pros and cons before making the final decision. You also need to make proper foundation templates while engaging in foundation piecing. A lot depends on the templates as they are used as replicas for sewing the quit blocks. Finally, you need to stock yourself with right accessories like pins and needles. These minor details in foundation piecing ultimately make a difference between an average quilt and a full fledge masterpiece.

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