3 Tutorials on English Paper Piecing
English Paper Piecing (or EPP as those in the know call it) can seem daunting at first, but it’s actually super simple and relaxing once you get the basics down. Take it from me, I run a mile from anything hand stitching but EPP is a little treat that I love to dip in and out of. I love it because unlike hand stitching there’s paper to support my work and keep it together. I also prefer the stitch method for joining the pieces to that of hand stitching. I’ve pulled together 3 tutorials that will help you figure out which way you’d like to join your blocks. My number 1 tip is to choose a method that works for you. It’s going to be a long process to stitch together 111 blocks so you have to make sure you love it!
1. GnomeAngel English Paper Piecing Tutorial (Glue Basting)
Ok. so I might be a little bias here but this is a pretty good and thorough tutorial for those of you looking to glue baste your pieces. It’s all picture based so if you prefer to look at a static picture over a video this can be a great way to learn. I use a whipstitch for my blocks. The stitches show on the front and I’m ok with that – I match my threads to minimise how much they show, but I like that they’re there because it points to the fact that my quilt is handmade. Click here for tutorial.
2. Karen the DIY Addict – Flat Back Stitch
3. Pat Bravo – Invisible Feather Stitch
If you’re still looking for hints and tips here’s a video from Sue Daley, the Queen of English Paper Piecing.
Bonus: Sue Daley’s Top 10 Tips for English Paper Piecing
If you have any questions about English Paper Piecing hit me up in the comments and we’ll work through it together! It’s a fabulous technique to master as it opens up a world of possibilities.
Can you post today or Friday about the basket handle on block 3. Pretty please. I know how to do if machine sewing but not how with EPP. Thank you
I have sign up serval times and still not getting your newletter
Hello.. my stitches keep coming undone at the start — I can’t seem to lock them without a big knot! Can you direct me to a clear demo for locking the start stitches or explain it to me? Thanks!!
Hi Genny – If you’re having issues with the thread coming undone then check out steps 5 and 5a on my tutorial (it’s the first one in the list above). I would recommend doing a knot like this at the start and seeing if that secures your stitches. If you’re using a thin (80 – 100wt) thread then I sometimes double knot it to keep it in place. Alternatively, a little (LITTLE!) dab of applique glue over the knot may help keep it in place after you’ve started stitching. (The glue will adhere it the fabric.) Hope this helps!
I’m going to try Pat Bravo’s method. Thanks!
Your tuttorial is awesome, but there is no link on this post and it was very difficult to find.