Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Tuesday Tool: Curved Piecing

Many quilters fear curved piecing. However, with the right tools and a little care, it isn't difficult.

My favorite trick is this special sewing machine presser foot:


The Curve Master foot fits most sewing machines. I use it on my Juki 2010, and also on my Viking.

Aside from careful cutting, the most important trick to stitching curved pieces together is understanding the "give" of fabric. Many curved piecing instructions insist on lots of pins -- I use only one, to mark the center of both pieces.

Pin once in the center, then begin stitching with the convex (outward) curve on top, matching the beginning edge of both pieces of fabric:


As you stitch, align both layers by lifting the fabrics and stretching slightly so they are flush:


I also slightly shorten my stitch length, but try with your normal stitch length first.  As you stitch across the curve, stretching the fabric eases the longer edge of the convex curve onto the concave curve.


  A little light pressing (with steam) and the seam will lie perfectly flat!


To add one row of apple core pieces to the next, treat each piece the same as you did when adding two single apple core pieces together.


Continue down the length of the strip until both strips are joined.

Once you've mastered the gentle curve of the apple core blocks, the more severe curve of Solomon's Puzzle will be a snap!

Come back tomorrow to see my April UFO project, "Mystery at Quilt Colorado," designed by Linda Ballard.

From the desk of your auntmartisignature

8 comments:

  1. Maybe I should try some curves after all! You make everything look so easy!
    I love those applecores!

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  2. Really? That's how easy it can be, with heaps of practice of course?! I am wanting to make placemats, so size wise this might be a good start.
    Thank you for this :)

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  3. Thanks. I am curious about the foot. Can you say more about it? How does it help you to sew curves?

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    Replies
    1. Laurelar, I'm sorry I can't reply via email, do you realize you're a no-reply commenter? I think the foot helps because it has two pieces, one is higher which "floats" right along the cut edge of the curve. I've pieced curves with my regular foot, but this little goodie really makes it easier!

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    2. That's good to know.

      I am no-reply because I am not on blogger.
      http://piecemealquilts.com/2011/09/08/no-reply-no-kidding/

      But I think it is better to reply to comments anyway, because now anyone else who wondered will see the info!

      Delete
  4. I'm still not sold on curved piecing. I'll do it, but it's never been a favorite of mine. Interested in a look at the specialty foot. Pretty nails...Sandi

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  5. Can't wait to see the finished product!

    ReplyDelete
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Thanks for taking your time to comment. If I don't answer in an email, it's because you're a no-reply commenter and I can't find you!