Pineapple Block Paper Piecing Tutorial
Excellent Instructions for Completing Any Paper Pieced Block!
Paper piecing can be a bit intimidating for those who have never done it before. But, it’s really quite simple once you know how.
The big benefit of this piecing method is the accuracy you’ll achieve when working with small pieces and blocks with intricate piecing. Plus, you’ll be able to make complex blocks that otherwise wouldn’t be possible.
Another plus is that you can start stitching right away. There’s no laborious cutting before you get started.
And, all seams are straight seams, even in blocks that appear to have curves.
Amber at Gigi’s Thimble has put together an excellent paper piecing tutorial.
While she demonstrates how to make a large pineapple block, her method and tips can be used with any paper pieced block.
The instructions are very detailed, even showing how she sets up her workstation. You’ll find a list of supplies and great tips to ease the process.
“Before getting started, you’ll need to shorten the stitch length on your sewing machine to about half the normal length. This is very important to do because it will perforate the paper, making it easy to tear off later. If you forget and you have to tug on the paper a lot when you go to remove it, you take the chance of pulling out some of your stitches in the process (which will become a big nightmare – NOT. GOOD.) So remember to always shorten your stitch length when paper piecing. I take mine down to a 1.5 stitch length on my Bernina.”
Mastering paper piecing opens up a whole new world, for both novice and experienced quilters. You’ll be able to create intricate quilt blocks of all sizes (and miniature quilts!) with perfectly pieced seams.
A large block like Amber’s pineapple block is a good place to start. There are free Pineapple Block templates available online or purchase Amber’s pack of 36 (12 3/8″ finished block size) Pineapple Block templates here.
Generations Quilt Patterns provides free Pineapple Block templates for 6″ and 8″ finished blocks here, as well as good tips (especially for fabric selection to optimize the design).
Amber’s pineapple block quilt turned out beautifully! We have been unable to find the pattern which includes the appliqued border. However, the body of the quilt can be made with her Pineapple Block Paper Piecing Pattern (templates). Get the set of 36 patterns for 12 3/8″ finished blocks here.
