All of my patterns include paper pieced blocks, which are constructed with scraps of fabric going in various directions. It is important to quilt over the finished block so it will not stretch out of shape when laundered. But, after paper piecing a lovely image, it almost hurts to quilt over it! My go to method is to use invisible thread.
These 3 invisible threads are brands that I have used and I think they are all do a good job. Superior Threads makes MonoPoly, Aurifil makes a 100% Nylon variety, and YLI makes this Monofilament 100% Nylon Invisible Thread. All of these threads will hold up to your iron, and not melt. But even so, I am always careful to iron gently.
Of these three invisible threads, my favorite is the YLI. It is easy to thread into my machine, and it doesn’t “snap” and break as easily as the others. When using any invisible thread, I use a lighter weight white, 40 weight spun poly bobbin thread.
Easter Bunny Gnome has been quilted with vertical lines that are 1” apart. I mark the lines with a Frixion pen so the lines can be erased with an iron. Quilting in this manner doesn’t distract from the image, and looks modern. The “Peepers” below were quilted with regular thread, changing thread color in each area. I also change the bobbin thread to match the top thread. This method also works fine, but is more tedious.
Now, let’s talk about having some Easter paper piecing fun! Hang these adorable “peepers” on your microwave with suction cups. They are easily accessible when cooking, but almost too cute to use!
Here’s the matching table runner, or create your own! I’d love to see what you produce. Here’s what some of my customers/friends have done using my Easter blocks…
Lisa used the Bunny from my HAPPY EASTER BUNNY pattern.
I am working on a new springtime bunny and will share the photo soon!
If you have any other questions about quilting over a paper pieced image, please leave a comment below, or email me directly at: maryannhertel@gmail.com
Love the suggestion of the invisible thread. I also love your blocks. I was wondering if you could design blocks having a Florida theme. I have the flamingo but would like an alligator, palm tree, bird of paradise, hibiscus, pelican, ibis, orange/lemon, conch, stone crab, etc. loads of quilters and visitors to Florida who might want to complete a Florida quilt.
Such a great suggestion, Kathleen. I’ll see what I can do! Could you email me at maryannhertel@gmail.com about this? Then I will have your email handy.
Mary – I am an addicted paper piecer. I have made lots and lots of your patterns. I love them. Now, what I do for ALL paper pieced patterns is to use a very lightweight fusible (like Pellon Basic, or Sheer Weight) and iron it to the back of each fpp block. Works great! I do not have to worry about the block “stretching” out of shape – ever!
Linda, This is so interesting! Do you do any quilting over the images? Have you washed your projects? I need to do more!
I mean “I need to know more!”
Well – sure, I quilt over them. They are stabilizied and don’t stretch. The fusible is very very thin and light weight, so it really doesn’t cause any problems with sewing machine needle. Have quilted some on my domestic Janome and some were quilted by a long armer. They wash fine, no problem. I find that by using the fusible on my fpp blocks, it is so much easier sewing everything together into a completed project.
I am looking for some photos. Will update you if you want.
Oh and washing and drying – no problem at all.
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The Easter pieces are so cute!
Do you have any patterns for hedgehogs?