We’re celebrating our 35th anniversary here at American Quilter’s Society. So join us as we look back at the trends that have shaped the quilting world and the trends of the moment fueling the future of quilting. This month, we’re trying English Paper Piecing or EPP for short.
English Paper Piecing uses paper templates in constructing blocks. Fabric is folded over the template, basted, and whip stitched together, usually by hand. EPP is a little bit magic, because you can create blocks and motifs from most any shape with ease and it’s easy to take EPP projects along with you on trips and errands.
How to Try This Trend
We have a tutorial you can download by CLICKING HERE that takes you step-by-step through the basics of English Paper Piecing. Once you have the basics, cut out some templates and get inspired. We’ve got you covered with both! Load up the printer with cardstock and grab these free EPP patterns.
Try any of these six vintage one-patch blocks.
Let the sunshine in with this EPP block.
Now you can conquer curved EPP with the flat back stitch.
Let your EPP skill sparkle with three precious gem patterns.
Ready for more inspiration?
Check out our Must-Try Pinterest board full of EPP eye-candy.
Have you tried this trend? Show us your creations in our Facebook group, AQS Quilting Project Parade. We can’t wait to see what you make!
What is the difference between English paper piecing and our traditional paper piecing?
Great question, Diane! English Paper Piecing uses templates made of sturdy paper without seam allowances; fabric is folded over the paper to hold a its shape, and then stitched together usually by hand. Foundation Paper Piecing uses thin paper with the sewing lines for an entire block or section printed on one side; fabric is sewn usually by machine to the other side of the paper and layered to make the shapes of the block. Hope that helps clarify! -Emily