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Curved Piecing

Curved Piecing

How to Sew Curved Piecing

(Mastering Drunkard’s Path and Flowing Quilt Blocks)

@createwhimsy3594

@makingitfunwithmichaelmill8161

@RobinPickens


Step-by-Step Instructions:

Curved piecing involves joining a concave (inner curve) shape to a convex (outer curve) shape. Found in classic blocks like the Drunkard’s Path, sewing curves requires careful pinning and easing.

Materials Needed:
  1. Curved acrylic templates
  2. Rotary cutter (28mm size is helpful)
  3. Fine glass head pins
  4. Stiletto or awl
  5. Sewing machine with a 1/4 inch foot
Tips for Precise Curves:
  • Use a smaller rotary cutter (18mm or 28mm) for smoother cutting around curved acrylic templates.
  • Don’t stretch the bias edges! Handle the curved pieces gently.
  • Use a stiletto to guide the fabric layers evenly under the presser foot to avoid puckers.
1. Cut and Prep the Shapes
  • Carefully cut out your concave and convex shapes using your templates. Fold each piece in half along the curved edge and finger press a small crease to mark the exact center.
2. Match the Centers and Ends
  • Place the pieces right sides together. First, align the center creases and secure with a pin. Then, align the straight raw edges at both ends of the curve and place a pin at each end.
3. Ease and Pin the Curve
  • Gently ease the remaining fabric into place along the curve. The fabric will bubble up slightlyโ€”this is normal. Place additional pins generously between the center and the ends to hold the curve steady.
4. Sew the Seam
  • Bring the pinned pieces to your machine. Sew a 1/4 inch seam slowly, removing pins just before you reach them. Use a stiletto to keep the edges aligned and prevent the top fabric from folding over itself.
5. Press and Square Up
  • Press the block carefully. Typically, it is best to press the seam allowance toward the concave (inner curve) piece so the fabric lays flat without clipping. Finally, square up the block to its required finished size.

Top FAQs for Curved Piecing:

Do I need to clip the curves? +

Usually, no. For most gentle quilt block curves (like a Drunkard’s Path), carefully pressing the seam allowance toward the background (concave) piece allows the block to lay perfectly flat without weakening the seam by clipping.

How do I prevent puckering? +

Puckering happens when the top fabric is fed faster or slower than the bottom fabric. Sewing slowly, using lots of pins, and using a stiletto to guide the fabric flat just before it hits the needle are the best ways to prevent puckers.

Can I sew curves without pinning? +

Yes, many advanced quilters use a “no-pin” technique by simply matching the edges as they feed the fabric under the foot, or by using a glue basting method. However, pinning is highly recommended while you are learning.

What size rotary cutter should I use? +

A smaller rotary cutter, such as an 18mm or 28mm, is much easier to maneuver around curved acrylic templates than the standard 45mm blade, leading to cleaner and more accurate cuts.

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