Introduction to English Paper Piecing

All supplies available at Tiger Lily and discounted 10%!

English Paper Piecing (EPP) is an age old method of sewing fabric shapes together to create larger fabric panels. It’s a creative, fun and addictive process. Instead of precisely cutting and machine piecing with exact seam allowances, EPP uses fabric wrapped around paper foundation patterns and traditionally stitched by hand to create patchwork designs. The design possibilities are varied and endless. EPP makes a great take along project to work on when traveling or for handwork while relaxing in your easy chair. My EPP sewing kit always contains an ongoing project and is ready to take with me everywhere!

In the class we’ll explore:

•         Fabrics, paper pieces/templates and notions and tools that will help you outfit your EPP sewing kit.
•         Techniques for selecting and using paper pieces and acrylic templates.
•         Methods to cut and apply the fabric to the paper pieces with thread or glue basting. 
•         Joining the fabric covered paper pieces together to construct pieced fabrics.
•         Completing your EPP project, remove the papers and finishing the edges.

Supplies: Many of the following notions will be on hand in class to try if you don’t already own them.  I’ll explain options and rationale for selecting notions for your hand sewing kit.

Pattern “Three Block Sampler” by Paper Pieces

Fabric: Fabric kit to accompany pattern (available at Tiger Lily) or assorted fabric scraps.

Thread: 60 wt. thread preferred. Coats & Clark “Paper Piecing” thread is a favorite.

Thread conditioner: Beeswax or “Thread Heaven” are options to consider.  

Needles: I think that any needle that is comfortable in your hand is a good one. I generally find that a #7-9 sharp or embroidery needle works well for EPP.  

Needle threader: Bring it if you routinely use one. There are numerous options.

Thimble: Bring it if you routinely use one. I don’t like the old fashioned ones, but I’m addicted to the adhesive dots like “Thimblepads”.

Glue: A glue pen with refills such as “Sewline” is a good choice for use on fabric. Elmer’s paper glue stick is also an option.

Fabric marking pen or pencil: I keep a “Frixion” heat erasable pen handy.

Scissors: for cutting fabrics and threads.

Seam ripper: Hoping we won’t need one!

Stiletto: I find my “Purple Thang” useful here.

Single Hole Punch: We’ll share if you don’t have one.

Fabric clips: For holding paper pieces together. I also use magnets such as “Sewtites Dots”.