Hi Everyone!

This tutorial is intended for people who have never done FPP before, and who want to learn how to do it. For this, I will explain how one of the Fiesta Quilt blocks is built, a pattern that can be made using FPP blocks and that is designed for beginners.

With the notions that you learn while building this block, you can start to make more complicated blocks, since the process is exactly the same, the only thing that can vary is the number of pieces and / or colors.

Here we go!

MAIN MATERIALS

Fabrics for background and accent colour
Ruler
Rotary cutter
Cutting mat
Pins
Thread
Sewing machine
Portable iron
Fiesta Quilt Pattern

TUTORIAL

Step 1.

The first thing you’ll want to do is print out the pattern, making sure your printer settings are set to actual size or you can set the scale to 100%.
The pattern includes a 1-inch test box so you can double check you’ve printed the correct size! You also have a level in one block on each size marking the measurement.

The main rule in FPP is that the fabric is placed on the back of the template, and we sew over the printed part. At first it may seem weird, but with a couple of blocks you make, you will catch it very quickly.

Step 2.

We start with the piece of fabric with number 1. Next to that number is the code of the fabric: A, the accent fabric. Place the piece of fabric with the wrong side against the back of the template. Set it back to the light (against a window for example) and make sure there is a 1/4 “seam allowance around the fabric.

Step 3.

Secure the fabric with a pin.

Step 4.

Fold the template along the line dividing area 1 from area 2. Use the ruler to have a crisp folding line.

Cut the fabric leaving a 1/4-inch allowance.

Step 5.

Flip the template over and place the strip of fabric color B (background) in the next area of the template (2). If you are using a print fabric, right side should be facing down.

Cut the fabric leaving enough seam allowance so you don’t fall short.

Step 6.

Flip the template over along with the new piece of fabric.

Flip the new piece of fabric over, lining up the side with the seam allowance, and secure with a pin.

Step 7.

Use a 1.5mm stitch, as it will be easier to remove the paper last. Sew along the line between area 1 and 2. Sew a little before the start of the line and a little after.

Step 8.

Fold the piece of fabric, and hold it back to the light again to make sure area 2 is well covered and protrudes 1/4 “all the way around.

Press the seam using some steam.

Step 9.

Repeat the process with fabric on area 3.

If you notice that the edge of the fabric is not straight, you can cut with the ruler leaving a straight 1/4 ” seam edge.

Step 10.

Repeat the process with the piece of fabric from area 4 and 5. Before ironing, check the seam allowance with the ruler, and cut off excess fabric if necessary.

To finish, cut the excess fabric around the block and remove the paper.