Letting the Fabric Speak 4me

 Fabric has been used, and continues to be used, for expression of identity, social status, secrets, and stories.

Quilts and blankets from around the world often tell stories and may be made from old clothing—fabric that holds the story and history of the wearer embedded in the weave of the cloth. There are stories of quilts made by slaves in which symbols were used to alert escaped slaves about where, when, and how to follow a path to freedom. 

Why do I quilt?  Just as sewing together helped slaves via “support and camaraderie”;  I believe I’m leaving a record… a hidden picture of my lovely life!

FYI FPP for my (NEWQ)

THIS IS AN ITCH.... THAT'S GOTTA BE SCRATCHED.

I'M TEACHING.... LEARNING AND LUVIN' IT!

What is Foundation Paper Piecing?

Foundation Paper Piecing (often abbreviated FPP), also known simply as paper piecing, is a quilting method in which:

• A printed paper pattern (the foundation) shows the outlines of the quilt block.

• Fabric pieces are sewn directly onto the paper following a numerical sequence and using the lines on the paper as a precise guide.

• The paper remains in place during sewing and is only removed after the entire block is completed.

• This method allows for very accurate and detailed piecing, especially when working with complex shapes or small fabric pieces.

Why Use Foundation Paper Piecing?

• Guarantees perfect points and sharp angles.

• Useful for complicated designs, like stars, mini blocks, or pictorial patterns.

• Great for beginners learning precision piecing, and also for advanced quilters working with intricate layouts.

Basic Steps of FPP:

1. Print the Pattern: Use regular or specialty foundation paper.

2. Cut Fabric Pieces: Slightly larger than each numbered section on the paper.

3. Align and Sew: Place fabric pieces on the unprinted side of the paper, and sew from the printed side along the lines.

4. Trim Seams: Flip, press, and trim after each seam.

5. Complete the Block: Continue adding fabric in numbered order.