ENGLISH PAPER PIECING QUILTS

English paper piecing (EPP) is a traditional quilting technique that involves sewing fabric pieces onto paper templates using a running stitch. The fabric is then folded over the edges of the paper template and sewn in place, creating precise, geometric shapes that can be pieced together to form a quilt top.

ENGLISH PAPER PIECING QUILTS

EPP has a long history, with roots dating back to the 1700s when it was a popular pastime among wealthy English ladies. Today, it is enjoyed by quilters of all skill levels and is known for its versatility and portability. It is a particularly good choice for quilters who enjoy hand stitching and for those who want to create intricate, detailed designs.

One of the benefits of EPP is that it allows quilters to achieve precise, accurate piecing without the need for a sewing machine. The paper templates provide a stable foundation for the fabric, ensuring that the pieces are perfectly aligned and allowing quilters to achieve precise, even stitches.

Another advantage of EPP is that it is very portable. The small fabric pieces and paper templates can be easily carried in a project bag and worked on anywhere, making it a great choice for quilters who like to work on the go or who have limited space in their homes.

To begin an EPP project, the first step is to choose a pattern and gather the necessary supplies. This typically includes fabric, paper templates, a needle, and thread. Some quilters prefer to use pre-cut paper templates, while others prefer to cut their own using a template material such as cardstock or plastic.

Next, the fabric is cut into the shapes specified in the pattern and pinned to the paper templates. The fabric is then sewn in place using a running stitch, taking care to keep the stitches even and consistent. Once all the pieces are sewn to the templates, the fabric is folded over the edges of the paper and sewn down to secure it in place.

As the pieces are pieced together, the paper templates can be removed, leaving behind the fabric pieces that have been sewn together. Some quilters choose to remove the paper as they go, while others prefer to leave it in place until the entire quilt top is complete.

ENGLISH PAPER PIECING QUILTS

There are many different patterns and designs that can be created using EPP, ranging from simple, geometric shapes to more complex, intricate patterns. Quilters can also mix and match different fabric prints and colors to create a wide range of effects.

In addition to quilts, EPP can also be used to create other projects such as cushions, bags, and wall hangings. It is a versatile technique that can be used to create a wide range of projects, and its portability and the ability to achieve precise, detailed designs make it a popular choice among quilters.