Quilters love a good hack—especially when it comes from something we already have in our kitchen! Freezer paper isn’t just for wrapping up leftovers; it’s a game-changer for making appliqué quilt templates. It’s cheap, sturdy (when layered), and best of all—it sticks to fabric when ironed. That means no slipping, no tracing (if you don’t want to), and no headaches.
Let’s break down the different template options and why freezer paper is a quilter’s best friend.
Comparing Appliqué Template Materials
When making appliqué templates, you have a few options:
- Cardstock – Cheap, sturdy, but slides around on fabric.
- Paper – Also cheap, but flimsy and prone to shifting.
- Mylar – More expensive but durable and reusable.
- Freezer Paper – Affordable, no-slip, and sturdy when layered. Bingo!
Two Types of Freezer Paper: Which One Should You Use?
- 8 ½” x 11” Sheets – Pre-cut to fit your inkjet printer, which means you can print your templates directly onto the dull side. Super convenient! However, these sheets typically cannot be fused together to make thicker templates.
- Roll Freezer Paper – The more flexible option! It lets you create custom sizes and, bonus, you can press multiple layers together to create sturdier templates. Just iron three layers (shiny sides down) to make a thicker, more durable template.
How to Use Freezer Paper for Appliqué Templates
- Tracing Your Design
- Place your pattern underneath the freezer paper (dull side up).
- Use a light pad or tape it to a window for better visibility.
- Be careful when tracing—straying outside the lines can distort your final shape!
- Pro Tip: Avoid FriXion pens—the heat from your iron will erase your lines. A fine-tip permanent marker or pencil works best.
- Cutting and Fusing the Template
- Cut out your freezer paper template precisely on the line.
- Iron the template (shiny side down) onto the right side or wrong side of your fabric, depending on your technique.
- The best part? No pinning or shifting! The template sticks firmly to the fabric while you cut.
- Cutting the Fabric
- If you’re using the iron-on method, simply cut around the freezer paper—no tracing necessary!
- If you do trace, remember that the drawn line adds a tiny bit to your template, so cut just inside the line for accuracy.
- Reusing Freezer Paper Templates
- You can reuse each template up to 20 times before the shiny side picks up too much lint to stick effectively.
- When they lose their stickiness, it’s time to retire them and cut a new set!
Why You’ll Love Freezer Paper Templates
- Saves time – No tracing onto fabric if you iron it directly.
- No shifting – Fabric stays put while cutting.
- Reusable – One template lasts through multiple uses.
- Cheap & accessible – If you already have it in your kitchen, even better!
So next time you’re prepping an appliqué project, raid your pantry and grab that roll of freezer paper. It’s one of those simple, budget-friendly tricks that makes quilting easier, cleaner, and (dare I say?) more fun!
Happy Quilting! 😊
