Paper Piecing 101

What is paper piecing?


Paper Piecing is a scrapbook technique which uses patterns to make scrapbooking embellishments. This type of scrapbooking embellishment is extremely versatile because you can cut the patterns in any color to perfectly coordinate with your project. You can easily run patterns thru your printer and manually cut each piece. There are wonderful programs like Sure Cuts A lot (SCAL) have automated this process and allow you to easily change the size to match your needs.

Where do I get paper piecing patterns?

Paper piecing patterns can be made by using color books or they can be purchased from many online outlets. Many companies, such as:

*crabbycakesstudio.com
* treasureboxdeisgn.com
* myscrapchick.com
*www.etsy.com/shop/ScrapAMemory

These online stores make patterns specifically for paper piecing and most paper piecing patterns are compatible with programs like the SCAL.

What supplies do I need to make a paper piecing?

• SCAL program (or one like it) or your favorite pair of scissors!
• Cricut (if you are using SCAL)
• Cardstock and/or patterned paper
• Adhesive
• Tracing Paper
• Pop dots (we prefer to use 1/16” for most applications)
• Colored Pencils, watercolor pencils, or watercolor paint
• Chalks or ink pads (my current favorites are Colorbox Cat's Eye Chalk Ink Pads and VersaColor Cube)
• Black Pens (like a Micron – .005 - .05 tip size)
• White gel pen for highlighting

How do I make a paper piecing using SCAL?

Step 1:
Open up your SCAL program and turn on your Cricut (you’ll need to put in a Cricut cartridge in order for SCAL to work).

Step 2:
In SCAL click on the SVG icon and select the file you want to cut.

Step 3:
Cut all your pieces one color at a time.

Step 4:
Chalk or ink the edges for added dimension.

Step 5:
Use acid free glue and pop dots to adhere your pieces together.

Step 6:
Adhere your finished paper piecing to your scrapbook page!

How do I make a paper piecing without using SCAL?

Step 1:
Trace your pattern using your tracing paper. Be sure to trace your paper with your pencil!

Step 2:
Once your pattern has been traced, choose your paper you want to use. Simply turn your traced pattern (pencil side) to the back side of the paper.

Step 3:
Firmly trace your pattern again, this will transfer your pencil pattern to your paper!

Step 4:
Cut your patterned pieced with your scissors. We like to use small detail scissors for this type of cutting.

Step 5:
Chalk or ink the edges for added dimension.

Step 6:
Use acid free glue and pop dots to adhere your pieces together.

Step 7:
Adhere your finished paper piecing to your scrapbook page!