How to Foundation Paper Piece a Quilt Block

January 4, 2026

If you haven’t tried it yet, it can seem a bit overwhelming, but I promise it’s easier than it looks. And once you get going, the precision and clean points will win you over instantly!

To help you get started, I’m also sharing a FREE Winter Wreath Ornament pattern you can download and practice with. Grab it here and let’s stitch something beautiful together!

Let’s gather supplies and dive in!

Tools Needed for Foundation Paper Piecing

FPP Template – Print at 100% scale and measure the 1” test block. You can use FPP paper or regular printer paper (my go-to!).
Fabric – Scraps work great! (You will need 1 piece at least 5” square for the backing.)
Thread – I prefer 50wt, but 80wt also works beautifully
Fabric Scissors
Cutting Mat
Rotary Cutter
Quilting Ruler
Wool Mat
Pins
Iron

Before you begin, print out your free Winter Wreath and double-check the scale. Make sure your printer settings are at 100% scale. Scaling your pattern up or down will mess with your block size.

Now it’s time to cut your fabrics! I love using scraps for these blocks, it’s a great way to make the most of your stash. Each section of the pattern is numbered and color-coded, so have fun choosing which fabrics you want for each part.

For beginners, the trickiest part is cutting the right size for each section. If you’re unsure, err on the side of cutting them a little bigger than you think, you can always trim them down later. I usually cut my pieces at least ½” larger than the section on the pattern for a little extra wiggle room.

When it comes to foundation paper piecing, the process is simple: sew your fabric onto the paper, then remove the paper to reveal a perfectly formed fabric block. To make tearing out the papers easier, I like to shorten my stitch length to 1.5 – 1.8 on my machine. It keeps the stitches secure but makes the papers come out smoothly.

Foundation Paper Piecing: Step-by-Step

Start by printing your FPP pattern. Most patterns will have numbered sections, which tells you the order to sew your pieces. I like to lightly mark the first fabric placement with a pencil so I can see it clearly through the paper.

Place your first piece of fabric right side up on the unprinted side of the paper. It should cover the entire first section with about ¼” overlap on all sides. You can flip the paper over to check. If your fabric fully covers the lines, you’re good to go.

Find the line between Sections 1 and 2. Place the second piece of fabric right sides together with the first fabric, lining up along the seam line. The key here is that the fabric extends past the edges of the section. Pin in place.

Pro tip: I always add a tiny bit extra fabric—trimming is easier than patching a block!

Flip your paper to the printed side. Sew directly on the line between sections 1 and 2. Don’t worry about perfection, your paper will guide you.

With the template still printed-side up, fold the paper back along the seam you just stitched.

Trim the fabric ¼” away from that fold.

Turn the piece over and press the fabric open. I love using a wool pressing mat at this stage, it holds the heat from your iron longer, so your seams stay crisp. It’s especially handy for FPP because it makes those tiny points and intricate sections really pop. I keep one right by my sewing machine.

Keep repeating: place, sew on the line, press. The numbered order is your best friend here. FPP is like a puzzle, and each piece has a perfect place.

Once all pieces are sewn, trim your block along the outer lines of the paper. This gives you that perfect square or rectangle ready to join other blocks.

Secret bonus: trimming now ensures your points and corners will match perfectly when you assemble your quilt.

Sew the units together with a ¼” seam allowance, following the symbols printed on the template to ensure proper placement.

Gently tear away the foundation paper. Some papers are easier to remove if you lightly score the back first. The lines you sewed on will guide your seams, so your block stays precise. Press well, and admire your perfectly pointed, beautifully crisp block!

You did it! 🎉

Your FPP block is complete, and you’ve officially stepped into the world of foundation paper piecing. FPP makes even complex designs achievable—no stress, no wobbly points, just quilt block perfection. I hope this technique brings you as much joy as it brings me.

Happy stitching!

Becca