Economy Blocks Made Easy (Even With Scraps & Directional Prints)

If foundation paper piecing has ever felt a little… fiddly — you’re not alone.

I used to think FPP was something you either got or you didn’t. Too many steps, too much trimming, and somehow my directional prints were always upside down 🙃

But once I slowed things down and figured out a simple rhythm, everything changed. Foundation paper piecing became calmer, more predictable, and honestly… kind of addictive.

That’s exactly why I created this free economy block tutorial — to take the guesswork out of FPP and help you enjoy the process instead of fighting it.

Why I love economy blocks (and why they’re perfect for beginners)

Economy blocks are such a good place to start with foundation paper piecing.

They’re structured enough to teach you how FPP works, but small enough that you’re not committing to a giant project straight away. They’re also amazing for scraps, fussy cuts, and those directional prints that never seem to land the right way.

If you’ve ever cut into a favourite fabric only to realise it’s upside down… well, me too.

A quick little pep talk before you start

If foundation paper piecing has ever felt fiddly or frustrating, you’re not alone — and you’re not doing it wrong.

Economy blocks can feel tricky at first, especially when you’re working with scraps or directional prints. But with the right prep and a clear step-by-step process, everything starts to click.

This tutorial is designed to help you slow down, and trust the process — because confident sewing comes from small wins, not perfection.

What’s inside the free economy block tutorial

This free download walks you through the entire process step by step, with a big focus on confidence and scrap-friendly sewing.

Inside you’ll find:

• clear, beginner-friendly instructions
• printable foundation paper pieced economy block templates
• how to cut fabric for directional prints (without the guesswork)
• trimming tips to keep your blocks neat and accurate
• a no-waste approach that works beautifully for scraps

Whether this is your first ever foundation paper pieced block, or you’ve tried before and felt a bit “meh” about it, this guide is designed to make things finally click.

What can you actually make with economy blocks?

This is one of my favourite parts.

You don’t need a huge stack of blocks or a full quilt plan to start using economy blocks — which is what makes them so fun (and a little addictive).

Just two blocks are enough to make the Itty Bitty Needlebook, and a handful more work beautifully in bags, pouches, and other scrappy projects where fabric placement really gets to shine. They’re perfect for the Patchwork Drawstring Bag, especially since none of your precious prints get chopped up in the process.

Economy blocks are a wonderful stepping stone into bigger projects — all the satisfaction, without the pressure.

Grab the free economy block tutorial

If foundation paper piecing has been sitting in the “I’ll try that one day” basket, this is your sign.

Take it slow, enjoy the process, and trust the steps — I’ve got you covered. And if you share your blocks on social media, make sure to tag me @maandmedesigns so I can cheer you on.

Happy sewing, Kellie. xx