Techniques
Strip Piecing
Sewing long strips of fabric together, then cutting the joined strip into segments.
Strip piecing is an efficient construction method where long strips of fabric are sewn together along their long edges, pressed, and then cross-cut into segments. These segments become the rows or units of a block. Nine Patch blocks, for example, can be strip-pieced using just two strip sets (light-dark-light and dark-light-dark), which are then cut into segments and rearranged. Strip piecing is faster and more accurate than cutting and sewing individual squares because it reduces the number of seams and pieces to handle.
Related Terms
Chain PiecingA method of sewing multiple pieces in sequence without lifting the presser foot or cutting thread between units.Nine PatchThe simplest 3×3 grid block, made from nine squares of alternating fabrics.Rail FenceA simple block made from three or four rectangles sewn side by side, set on alternating orientations.
Practice makes perfect.
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