Cutting and Piecing Curves
When looking at contemporary quilts we often see quilts made with lovely Curves - not a straight line anywhere. Cutting and Piecing Curves in quilt tops or quilt blocks can seem challenging even to the most experience quilter. There are many ways to cut curves, including acrylic templates, rulers and die cutters as well as creating templates with paper, cardboard or freezer paper. Depending on the project and style of quilt - you can also do your cutting free hand! The size of the rotary cutter may also make a difference. Tighter curves are more easily cut with a smaller 14mm precision rotary cutter. Large scale designs can be drawn on freezer paper as a whole. The lines are drawn and marked on the dull side to indicate where seams should match and the pattern pieces are then cut apart. When working improvisationally and planning to use long curved pieces, place the fabrics to be cut, right sides up, overlapping where they are to be joined and cut them together. This will ensure the seams will match up and be easier to sew.
Piecing curves may be challenging at first, however, there are many methods for stitching curves. To get started with sewing curves, experts suggest putting the concave (curves in) piece on top and the convex (curves out) piece on the bottom. Why? The concave piece will stretch on the edge for better handling and the convex piece will be eased in place by the feed dogs of the sewing machine. Pinning is suggested and most patterns are marked in the center or throughout the pattern on both the convex and concave pattern pieces where they should match up. Careful pressing will ensure your curves lay flat. Depending on the size of the pieces, contour of the curve, and a little experience, you might be able to go pin free. Experience will allow you to chose the technique that is most suitable for your sewing style and over all quilt design.
Benefits of Cutting and Piecing Curves
- There are many quilts with curved elements in Traditional, Contemporary, Art and Modern Quilting.
- Cutting and Piecing Curves in a variety of styles and contours will broaden your selection of blocks and quilts to make.
Tools and Supplies for Cutting and Piecing Curves
You'll need the following for Cutting and Piecing Curves:
- General sewing and quilting supplies
- Templates or die cutter
- Rotary Cutter with a smaller blade size for tight Curves, self healing mat
- Marking tools
What I Wish I Knew When I Started Cutting and Piecing Curves
A small rotary cutter is perfect for CUTTING CURVES.
