What Is a String Quilt?
String piecing is a type of foundation piecing, where fabric is sewn onto a backing material -- the foundation. The technique gets its name from the long strips of fabric that are used -- the strings, which are sewn randomly to a permanent foundation that's typically cut from muslin. You can use another fabric if you like, but choose one that won't show through the strings after they are in place on the front of the quilt blocks.String quilts likely originated as a make do technique by budget conscious quilters, as way to use leftover scraps of fabric. The technique is still a perfect way to use quilting scraps, but today's quilters often purchase fabrics just so they can cut them up into strings.
String Quilt Tips
- Strings needn't be straight strips of fabric; try using angled strings to create variety and visual interest.
- Don't worry about fabric grain placement, because the strings are permanently stabilized by the foundation.
- Forget about trying to match fabrics; string quilts are charming when you asssemble them from a wide assortment of colors and fabric styles.
- Choose quilting fabrics in a wide variety of color values.
- Strings can be any width, and for the most interesting results their widths should differ. I typically cut strips that are 1-1/4" to 2-1/2" wide for 8" or larger blocks; narrower widths for miniatures.
String piecing is a free-form quiltmaking method, so you will not usually mark a pattern onto your foundations. Instead, you'll simply position strips, sew a seam, flip the strip right side up, and then add another. It's super simple, but there are so many ways to string piece that the results are never boring.
Examples of String Pieced Quilts
String Pieced PostcardString Pieced Gallery
