Have you ever felt overwhelmed by a big foundation paper piecing (FPP) project? You’re not alone! In this paper piecing tutorial, I’ll show you how I conquer those big projects with ease! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned quilter, these tips and tricks and video tutorial will help you manage large scale foundation paper piecing and minimize seam-ripping moments. I’m breaking it all down for you: how to prepare, piece, and stay sane while working on oversized FPP quilt blocks. Let’s take the mystery out of it and make big, beautiful blocks—while minimizing the seam-ripping moments.
And be sure to scroll down to watch the video tutorial and get my best tips for large-scale paper piecing success!
Why Large Scale Foundation Paper Piecing Feels Intimidating (But Shouldn’t!)
It’s easy to think that bigger = harder when it comes to foundation paper piecing. But the truth is, large-scale foundation paper piecing is just like the regular kind—only bigger! With the right mindset and a few clever tricks, you’ll be piecing with confidence and ease.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this foundation paper piecing video tutorial:
Prepping Oversized Paper Piecing Templates
Let’s set ourselves up for sewing success! How to print, tape, and manage large pattern templates without frustration
Tricky Angles Made Easy
Learn my strategies for arranging and securing fabric with confidence
Interior Paper Piecing Sections: Arranging and Securing Fabric with Precision
Master the art of fabric placement and how to keep your fabric pieces under control (no shifting or slipping before you get to your sewing machine
How to Join Large Scale Paper Pieces with Ease
Sew together your large scale paper pieces with ease. With these tips, including pinning, you’ll minimize your use of the seam ripper and sewing do-overs.
Watch the Tutorial: Tips + Tricks for Large Scale Foundation Paper Piecing
Tools + Products I Use (and Love) for all types of Foundation Paper Piecing
Want to set yourself up for FPP success? Here are some of my favorite tools I mentioned in this video:
Shop My Go-To Paper Piecing Supplies:
➝ Pacon Plain Newsprint Paper – my favorite paper to FPP with
➝ Sewline Water Soluble Glue Pen – durable glue, but paper comes off fabric easily when you want it to
➝ Add-A-Quarter Ruler – makes trimming quick and accurate
➝ Olfa Rotary Cutter – my favorite durable brand
➝ Iris Superfine Pins – perfect for precision piecing
➝ Aurifil 50wt Cotton Thread – my favorite for crisp seams
New to Foundation Paper Piecing? Beginners, Start Here!
If you’re just getting started with paper piecing (or want a quick refresher), I’ve got you covered. Check out these additional free resources to learn the basics before jumping into larger projects:
➝ Free Foundation Paper Piecing Video Tutorial / Mini-Class
➝ Access My Full Library of FREE Video Tutorials (including Foundation Paper Piecing)
Ready to Try Large-Scale FPP with a Quilt Pattern You’ll Love?
Now that you’ve got all the tips, tricks, and video support for tackling large-scale foundation paper piecing, why not put your new skills into action? I’ve designed some modern quilt patterns that feature bold, oversized FPP elements—they’re satisfying to piece, and perfect for showing off your new confidence!
Choose your Starry Signs Add-On Adventure:
➝ Mountain Add-On Borders: A dramatic, nature-inspired FPP border design — Makes a cozy table runner or bed runner on it’s own!
➝ City Add-On Borders: A sleek, modern city skyline made with large-scale FPP— Makes a beautiful table runner or bed runner by itself!
Large-Scale Paper Piecing — Let’s Do This!
Large-scale Paper Piecing doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right preparation and a few handy tricks, you’ll be stitching up bold, graphic, large blocks like a pro. Whether you’re working on an Add-On Pattern from my Starry Signs Block of the Month or experimenting with your own large-scale designs, I hope this tutorial helps you feel more confident and excited to paper piece on a large scale.
Leave a comment below if you try these tips—I’d love to cheer you on!
Happy stitching,
Sheri
2 Comments
I really appreciate how you broke down the prep process for oversized templates—it’s usually where I get overwhelmed. The reminder that it’s just like regular FPP, just bigger, was a mindset shift I didn’t know I needed.
Oh my goodness! I needed this blog post a few weeks ago! It would have made for fewer headaches, I’m sure. Happy to have the tips for next time.