Improv and freezer paper piecing go together like birds of a…wait. Did I say improv and freezer paper in the same sentence? Yes, I did and it’s so doable.
99% of the time, I turn to freezer paper piecing to make modern triangles for accuracy and sharp points. After a marathon paper ripping session with traditional foundation paper piecing, I swore off all foundation paper piecing. Until…my friend intervened with a freezer paper piecing solution.
Now I use my favorite technique with improv piecing, even though perfect points aren’t the end game. It’s more about straight seams, efficiency and minimizing distortion. I get great results when I trim the blocks and you will, too. And you won’t need any fancy tools or materials.
Watch the video tutorial or follow along below. I will show you how I used freezer paper piecing to make diamond blocks with strips for my Murmuration quilt.
Warning: This freezer paper piecing tutorial will change your quilting life. FOREVER.
Key Highlights
- See how two very different techniques work together for great results.
- Learn how freezer paper piecing creates a solid backing for your creations, especially strip piecing.
- Say goodbye to torn papers and sore fingers—experience a smoother piecing process.
- Use a versatile technique suitable for both beginners and experienced quilters.
Improv Freezer Paper Piecing Basics
TEMPLATES: In essence, freezer paper piecing involved using freezer paper templates as a guide.
SEAMS: Seams are straighter by stitching along the folded edge of the freezer paper on the fabric.
FOUNDATION: Pieces are lined up accurately with less chance for distortion AKA wonkiness. The freezer paper holds your pieces in place as you add more pieces. The shiny side sticks temporarily to the backside of the fabric when pressed with an iron.
NO RIPPING: Freezer paper is peeled away cleanly when the block is done – ripping little bitty bits of foundation paper off the backside is no longer YOUR nightmare.
MATERIALS AND TOOLS: You’ll need a few basic supplies including freezer paper, a rotary cutter, small cutting mat, fabric, an iron, wool pressing mat or ironing board, and basic sewing tools.
Optional items: Walking foot and add-a-quarter ruler.
The Unique Benefits of Using Freezer Paper for Piecing vs. Paper Foundations
The shiny side of the freezer paper adheres to the wrong side of the fabric, acting as a temporary adhesive that keeps your pieces perfectly aligned during sewing. This remarkable feature eliminates shifting and ensures accurate stitching, ultimately saving you time and effort. What’s more, unlike traditional foundation paper, freezer paper can be cleanly peeled away after stitching, leaving your fabric and stitches intact—no more picking out stubborn paper bits!
Tutorial
Setting up your the Sewing, Pressing and Piecing Stations
I like to set up three stations within arm’s reach to streamline the process:
- Sewing Station: I like to use a walking foot because it feeds the fabric evenly. It’s optional but consider trying it out for even edges at the ends of seams. Keep a rotary cutter and a small cutting mat for trimming threads and making quick cuts. Set the stitch length to 2.2 mm.
- Pressing Station: A clean dry (no steam) iron and a small wool pressing mat are ideal for this technique. Optional: I sometimes use a seam roller instead of finger pressing.
- Piecing Station: Clear the deck! This is where you’ll assemble your blocks. Set your pieces in stacks on a clean work surface next to your machine. Having a design wall nearby can also be beneficial for visualizing your layout as you piece.
Preparing your template for improv paper piecing
If you have an inkjet printer, you can print your templates directly onto the dull side of freezer paper. See my tips on choosing freezer paper and how to print foundations.
After printing (or drawing) your design, carefully cut out the template pieces using sharp scissors.
- Transfer any markings or notes onto the freezer paper template itself. These markings show the fabric placement and stitching order.
Step-by-step guide to ADDING sewing strips
Pressing fabric onto a template
1. Check to make sure your fabric piece is larger than the template by at least a ¼ inch. In this case, I compared the strip length with the diamond template.
2. Always position your fabric piece wrong side up and lay the template’s shiny, waxy side face down over it. The matte paper side will be facing you – press your iron on it for a few seconds.
3. Next, fold your paper back on the first section fold line. Remember that your stitching line will be along the edge of the folded paper, not a quarter inch away. This ensures that your seam allowances will be accurate when you press your fabric open.
For better accuracy, use a stiletto or a seam ripper to help you keep your fabric aligned with the edge of the paper as you stitch.
4. Place the second fabric strip underneath the first strip, right sides together and aligning the straight edges. The template will be on top, guiding your stitching.
Slowly stitch along the fold.
If your seam allowance is larger than a quarter inch, use a rotary cutter and an add-a-quarter ruler to trim away the excess fabric.
Unfold the paper over the stitched pieces. Press on the matte paper side.
5. Slowly stitch along the fold.
If your seam allowance is larger than a quarter inch, use a rotary cutter and an add-a-quarter ruler to trim away the excess fabric.
6. Open/unfold the paper over the stitched pieces. Press on the matte paper side.
7. Continue by folding the paper back at the next line, aligning the edges of the third strip under the second one, right sides together. Stitch along the fold line to complete the seam.
8. I started in the center of the template and added strips to cover one side. Next, I turned the template around and repeated the process on the other half.
Tips for Pressing Seams
Pressing is a crucial step in freezer paper piecing. Proper pressing ensures crisp seams and a flat, professional-looking block, so let’s discuss the best practices.
9. Always press your seams on the back of your block, with the matte papery side of the freezer paper facing up. This helps to avoid any unwanted creases or marks on your fabric’s right side.
10. Using a hot, dry iron, gently press up and down on your seams. Avoid sliding the iron, as this can stretch and distort your fabric. Allow your seams to cool before moving on to the next step so the adhesive on the paper sets in place.
Remember, the key is to take your time, press carefully, and enjoy the process of bringing your unique creative vision to life!
Finishing Touches
You’ve finished the blocks and it’s time for the reveal!
11. Gently peel the paper away from your fabric. Avoid fraying the raw edges by peeling toward the seams versus the raw edges. Works like a charm!
Give your block one final press. This time, press from the front side. This final press helps to set the stitches and gives your block a polished look.
Trimming and Squaring Up Your Pieced Work
Trimming and squaring up your pieced blocks are essential steps for achieving professional-looking results. Use a sharp rotary cutter to make accurate cuts.
Carefully align your ruler with the markings on your trimming template. Apply gentle pressure to the ruler to prevent it from slipping as you trim. Remember to trim all sides of your block evenly. A squared-up block ensures that your pieced units fit together seamlessly when assembling your quilt top.
Best Practices for Improv Freezer Paper Piecing
In mastering improv freezer paper piecing techniques, you’ve unlocked a world of creative possibilities. By understanding the benefits of using freezer paper and mastering its application in your quilting projects, you can elevate your piecing game. Remember to set up your stations thoughtfully, prepare your templates meticulously, and sew with precision using the tips shared. Embrace the freedom of improvisation while maintaining a structured approach for stunning results. With practice, patience, and attention to detail, your pieced works will reflect your unique style and expertise. Get ready to embark on a quilting journey filled with innovation and artistry!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can freezer paper be reused for piecing more than once?
Yes, you can often reuse regular freezer paper for piecing a couple of times. After removing the excess fabric, smooth out the paper and store it for future use. However, the adhesive may lose its effectiveness after multiple uses.
