the basics of english paper piecing

 I always assume that because I've seen something on another blog,

then everyone has right?

This post is a basic guide to English paper piecing (epp) for those who haven't read the blogs I've read.

Firstly it may not be obvious,

 epp is a hand sewing technique, if you love your machine

you might not like it...I'm just saying...you need patience.

 My home made templates.

I love epp because I like the control, the accuracy and the ability to sew anywhere

especially in the garden!!!

Draw around your cardboard/plastic template.
Cut out your paper template.
Cut the fabric with a 1/4'' seam all around
Tack the fabric on to the paper piece.

Place two pieces right sides together and whip stitch across the edge,
taking care not to sew through the paper.

 I've opened the pieces out above to help you understand how it works.
Carry on stitch more pieces together with the same thread,
when you cant join any more tie it off with a knot.
Paper pieces are removed at the end.

The bigger the pieces the quicker your project will come together.
The above picture is my current epp project,
the circles are the size of dinner plates.
Epp is a great way to make trickier quilts by hand
if you are a machine-phobe.
I do use my machine for patchwork,
I just like hand sewing.
If you have any question or are unsure,
take a look at my fussy cutting tutorial or leave me a comment.

 I liken epp to that of a jigsaw,

only with simpler pieces.

If you can wrap fabric around a paper shape and sew them together,

then you can paper piece it.
I like to use a bright coloured thread for the tacking
so when you come to cut out the thread it's obvious which knots to cut.
Believe me I've cut the wrong ones before,
it happens!