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Free "Picture Piecing " Block Patterns

We offer two free sample patterns to help you learn the "Picture Piecing" technique used in Cynthia's patterns.

 
"Engine" Block Pattern
Finished size: 8" x 8"

This pattern is an example of the beginner pattern series. It is accompanied by detailed instructions, with photographs, to help quilters learn Cynthia's Picture Piecing technique. This block is a companion to sixteen other baby blocks in the "Baby's Favorites" book by Cynthia England.

Getting Started - Engine Instructions

Note: In case you don't need to review the step-by-step instructions, the "Engine Pattern" button will take you directly to the page with instructions for downloading the free Engine pattern.
   
"Ice Cream Cone"
Block Pattern
Finished size: 6.5 " x 6.5"
(or 7.5" x 7.5")

This pattern is a great way to practice the Picture Piecing technique once you've worked through the detailed "Engine" block instructions.

Practice - Ice Cream Cone Pattern

   
Both blocks are entirely machine pieced. There are only straight seams, no "set-ins". Try these sample patterns and see how easy it can be to create Cynthia's detailed block designs. 

The technique , "Picture Piecing", was developed by Cynthia and is characteristic of all of her patterns. Many are surprised to learn that these designs are not "Foundation Pieced" or "Flip and Sewn". The numbering sequence is not designed for foundation piecing. If you were to piece this block using foundation piecing, the pattern would be reversed.

Please note: the instructions given in this online "Engine" block sample pattern are more detailed than those you'll find in our Intermediate and Advanced patterns. With the exception of the photos, these instructions are more characteristic of our Beginner patterns.
 

A few differences between Picture Piecing and Foundation Piecing:

  • Ironing is on the right side of the fabric, not the wrong side. This enables you to use the fabric to the best advantage. For instance, if you have a directional fabric or stripe fabric in foundation piecing, you have to guess which way to flip it. In Picture Piecing there is no guessing. By ironing the freezer paper directly onto the area you want to 'see' in the quilt, you have complete control - what you see is what you get.
  • There is no fabric waste in Picture Piecing. You cut out exactly what you need.
  • You are looking for any two pieces to sew together in Picture Piecing. This enables you to "chain stitch" within a section making construction faster.
  • Cheating is allowed! If you do not sew close enough to the template pieces, simply reposition the freezer paper template as described on Troubleshooting Hints.