There are two different methods we like to use when paper piecing out blocks: The Freezer Paper Method and Foundation Paper Piecing. We've included instructions below for both!

The Freezer Paper Method

Tools needed:

• Add-A-Quarter Ruler (this comes in a 6" length, an 18" length, or a combo pack)
• Freezer Paper
• Cardstock (a bookmark or postcard will work nicely!)
• 50wt thread
• Iron
• Sewing machine
• Pencil (optional)
• Open toe appliqué foot (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Print or trace (using pencil) your pattern onto the matte side of the freezer paper and label all pieces of the pattern if they aren't already.

Step 2: Pre-fold along all sewing lines.

Step 3: With the wrong side against the shiny side of the freezer paper, iron on your first piece of fabric with the shiny side down to protect your iron.

Step 4: Fold along the line between the first and second section with your cardstock inbetween and use your Add-A-Quarter Ruler to trim away excess fabric, leaving a perfect 1/4" seam allowance.

Step 5: With right sides together, sew fabric piece 2 and fabric piece 1 together next to the folded line.

Step 6: Fold and press piece 2 fabric up onto section two of your pattern.

Step 7: Repeat steps 4-6 for all sections.

Step 8: Once you have all sections sewn together and fused to the freezer paper, trim your unit along the dotted lines (this is your seam allowance).

*Do NOT remove the freezer paper until you have completed Step 8*

Foundation Paper Piecing

Tools needed:

• Add-A-Quarter Ruler (this comes in a 6" length, an 18" length, or a combo pack)
• Foundation Paper
• Cardstock (a bookmark or postcard will work nicely!)
• 50wt thread
• Finger presser
• Sewing machine
• Pencil (optional)
• Open toe appliqué foot (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Print or trace (using pencil) your pattern onto the foundation paper and label all pieces of the pattern if they aren't already.

Step 2: Pre-fold along all sewing lines.

Step 3: With the wrong sides together, attach fabric piece 1 to section 1 using a glue stick (acid free) or pins. 

Step 4: Fold along the line between the first and second section with your cardstock in between and use your Add-A-Quarter Ruler to trim away excess fabric, leaving a perfect 1/4" seam allowance.

Step 5: Glue or pin fabric piece 2 and fabric piece 1 together and sew directly on the sewing line between the two sections with a 1.5 stitch length (this helps perforate the paper making it easier to remove when finished). *Tip: Using an open toe appliqué foot helps to be able to see the line better!

Step 6: Finger press seam between piece 1 and piece 2.

Step 7: Repeat steps 4-6 for all sections.

Step 8: Once you have all sections sewn to the paper, trim your unit along the dotted lines (this is your seam allowance).

*Do NOT remove the paper until you have completed Step 8*