I spotted a gorgeous QAL http://wheretheorchidsgrow.blogspot.co.uk a couple of weeks ago. I pondered whether it was beyond me as I have never attempted paper piecing before. After exchanging tweets with  Leila I decided to give her freezer paper tutorial a try.

I nervously gathered my scrappy scrap fabric to construct a trial quarter. Half an hour or so later….proof, in spite of having two babies, my brain is still in relatively good working order.

I ironed the paper on the wrong side and sewed the pieces together, slowly (with paper still attached). I found it a bit tricky to line up the start of the seam line sometimes. Of course I should have ironed each seam after sewing. But that was downstairs and I was too eager to see how it would turn out to make that trip!

So, it’s not perfect. Some of the points missed. But I was too pleased I had managed it, to care too much. Next time it will be better.

I studied the endless possible colourways. Plotted and plannned; on the walk to school, while cooking tea and putting the kids to bed. Finally when they were sleeping a quick sketch, ready for cutting in the morning.

Reaching for my Charm Pack of ‘Mama said Sew’ I started drawing, cutting, ironing and laying out. At the end of the day a bit of rejigging and more cutting to try and maximise the contrast. It has taken a while and made my brain ache, but Leila’s tutorial has helped me get this far. I am hoping to finish it soon…well as soon as the kids are back at school. Go on give it try!

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