If you're new to quilting, you've probably noticed that even small quilt projects can involve a lot of sewing. All those little fabric pieces, all needing to be stitched together neatly... it adds up!
One simple trick that can save you loads of time (and make your sewing more accurate too) is something called chain piecing.
Never heard of it? Don’t worry! Today I’m going to explain exactly what chain piecing is, why it’s brilliant, and how you can start using it in your own quilting projects.
What is Chain Piecing?
Chain piecing is a sewing technique where you sew multiple pieces of fabric together in one continuous line, without stopping to cut the thread between each pair.
Imagine sewing one set of squares together, then instead of lifting the presser foot and trimming the thread, you immediately feed the next pair through the machine... and the next, and the next.
When you’re done, you’ll have a whole long “chain” of pieces, connected by thread!
I have created a full video here on my YouTube channel which will show this method in action.
https://youtu.be/GbxLU9kmYas?si=ZFWTMUzA6sueY62i
Why Quilters Love Chain Piecing
There are a few reasons why chain piecing is a total game-changer, especially for beginners:
✅ It saves time.
Instead of stopping and starting after every piece, you just keep sewing! You can piece dozens of units much faster. If you've watched any of my videos - you will have seen me doing this exact method.
✅ It saves thread.
Since you're not cutting between every piece, you use way less thread overall.
✅ It keeps you organized.
Because your pieces stay connected in the order you sewed them, it’s easier to keep track of what goes where—especially useful for quilts with lots of blocks.
✅ It helps with consistency.
When you get into a steady rhythm, your seams stay straighter and more even. Less fuss, more flow!
How to Chain Piece (Step-by-Step)
Ready to give it a try? Here's how to start:
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Lay out your fabric pieces.
Organize them so you know which ones need to be sewn together. -
Pick up the first two pieces.
Place them right sides together and lining the edges like you would normally - you can do straight forward sewing or even chain piece half square triangles. -
Sew along the seam.
Stitch them together using a 1/4" seam allowance as usual. -
Without cutting the thread, pick up the next two pieces.
Sew a few additional stitches and then feed the next pieces straight into the machine..
5. Repeat, repeat, repeat!
Keep sewing until you've pieced everything you need.
6. Snip the thread.
Once you're finished, carefully snip the little thread chains between each set. You can use small scissors, a seam ripper, or a special chain-piecing thread cutter if you have one - I have this one on my wish list. https://amzn.to/4jPT2tN
A Few Quick Tips for Chain Piecing Success
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Stay in order: If you’re sewing blocks in a specific layout, stack your pieces carefully and sew them in the correct order.
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Practice: It might take a few tries to get you feeling confident (and stop reaching for the scissors and lifting the pressor foot - but it won't take long to get used to the method.
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Use a leader and ender: Initially start sewing onto a scrap of fabric (called a “leader”) to prevent thread tangles at the start, and finish with an “ender” piece too (which then becomes the leader f for your next sew.
Final Thoughts
Chain piecing is one of those little secrets that can totally change how you feel about quilting - suddenly, piecing feels faster, easier and even a more fun!
Whether you're making a simple baby quilt or tackling a full-size masterpiece, learning how to chain piece will make the process so much easier.
Give it a try on your next project - you’ll be amazed at how quickly your quilt top starts coming together!
Happy stitching,
Tamsin