Mariner’s Compass Paper Piecing Pattern

Do you like Paper Piecing?

Paper Piecing is a pattern making technique that involves a paper foundation piece which provides your trimming and sewing lines to give you very accurate points, edges and joins. You work mostly on the backs of the fabrics and continuously sew, press, trim and then align. It is a preferred method by some, and a hated method by others.

I learned how to paper piece over a decade ago and the one thing I really didn’t appreciate about it was the waste of fabric. Since then, I have tried to come up with a few ways to minimize the waste, as I find that the accuracy is great. I tried to understand the pattern and where the pieces where going and adjust the cutting sizes.

I felt that since I was a precise cutter, I could reduce some of the extra inches. If you know you don’t always cut accurately or if you want to go through a bit quicker, then by all means use the given measurements in a pattern. I also don’t mind cutting in increments other than half and whole inches…Sometimes you have to use all the marks on your rulers and cutting mats. So the idea of Precision Paper Piecing might not be for you.

I also keep a scrap basket that I use often. Even the smallest scraps can be used….especially if you are getting into landscape and photograph quilts.

If you are interested in a fun Paper Piecing Pattern that is a good starter block or center of an album, check out the Mariner’s Compass Pattern that I have for sale at my Etsy shop. It even comes with the not-quite-patented “Make Your Life Easier” Color Guide which helps you plan your colors and keep them organized to minimize those Oh-crap-I-have-to-rip-that-out….I-grabbed-from-the-wrong-pile moments.

For a link to that pattern, please click below:
https://www.etsy.com/listing/94183989/mariners-compass-paper-piecing-pattern?