Join Brenda Groelz as she introduces you to the fun world of foundation piecing. Also known as paper piecing, this is a great method for piecing accurate points, odd angles and tiny pieces. Part 1 (McCall's Quick Quilts, November, 2003) covered the basics, trimming tips, and Brenda's favorite tools. Part 2 (McCall's Quick Quilts, January, 2004) covered sewing assembly-style. Each article in this series will review the basics (for those just joining us) and will introduce a new topic.

This issue, we work with half-square triangles. Pre-cutting makes quick work of piecing by taking the guesswork out of placing the fabrics. It also ensures that your pieces are on-grain after sewing. Read through the following steps and tips, then try your hand at foundation piecing triangles with Delft Blue, an elegant new quilt that Brenda designed just for you.

A Place white and blue triangles right sides together, and place behind #1 position, with wrong side of white triangle to the unprinted side of the foundation. Be sure that both triangles extend approximately 1/4" into the #2 position. There should also be at least 1/4" of fabric extending beyond the edges of the paper foundation.
B Hold fabrics in place and turn printed side up. Stitch along line between #1 and #2 positions, using short stitch length (15-18 stitches per inch). Start and end 2-3 stitches beyond the end of the line. Remove from machine and clip all threads.

C Using scissors placed between paper and fabric, trim seam allowance to 1/4" if needed. Just eyeball it. It doesn't have to be perfect!

D Press seam allowance flat from fabric side, then flip blue triangle to cover #2 position and press again. Note: If you have photocopied the foundation, avoid touching the printed side with iron. Toner will melt and transfer to your iron and fabrics.