An Introduction to English Paper Piecing (EPP): A Timeless Quilting Technique

If you've ever wanted to slow down your stitching and enjoy the meditative rhythm of hand sewing, English Paper Piecing (EPP) might be your next favorite technique. Whether you're new to quilting or a seasoned maker looking to try something different, EPP offers a portable, precise, and highly addictive way to piece intricate designs together with ease.

What is English Paper Piecing?

English Paper Piecing is a hand-sewing technique that uses paper templates to stabilize fabric pieces as they are sewn together. The method dates back to the 18th century and remains a beloved approach for creating detailed patchwork—especially for shapes like hexagons, diamonds, and other polygons that might be tricky to sew by machine.

At its core, EPP involves:

1. Cutting paper templates to your desired shape and size.

2. Basting fabric around each paper piece (either with thread or glue).

3. Hand stitching the fabric-covered pieces together using a whipstitch or flat back stitch.

4. Removing the papers after the pieces are sewn together and the structure is stable.

It’s simple, satisfying, and allows for incredible accuracy in complex designs.

Why Try English Paper Piecing?

• Portability: You can take your EPP project almost anywhere—on the couch, in the car, or while traveling.

• Mindful Stitching: EPP encourages you to slow down, relax, and enjoy the process. It's the perfect counterbalance to our fast-paced, screen-heavy world.

• Precision: Because the fabric is stabilized by paper, your shapes and seams turn out beautifully crisp.

• Design Possibilities: From traditional Grandmother’s Flower Garden quilts to modern geometric compositions, EPP opens up endless creative opportunities.

What You'll Need to Get Started

• Paper templates (buy pre-cut or print your own)

• Fabric scraps or yardage

• Fabric scissors or rotary cutter

• Thread and a fine hand-sewing needle

• Basting supplies (thread or fabric glue)

• Clips or pins to hold pieces in place

Optional but helpful:

• A small project case or pouch to keep things organized

• Thimble or finger protector

• Wonder clips or binding clips

A Few Beginner Tips

• Start with a simple shape, like 1" hexagons.

• Don’t stress if your stitches show—your technique will improve with practice.

• Use a thread color that blends with your fabric.

• Try both thread basting and glue basting to see what you prefer.

Final Thoughts

English Paper Piecing is more than just a technique—it’s a return to slow, intentional making. Whether you tackle a full quilt or a small pincushion, the joy is in each tiny stitch. Stay tuned for future posts where I’ll share my favorite EPP tools, tutorials, and project ideas to get you started!

Have you tried English Paper Piecing before? What’s your favorite shape to work with? Let me know in the comments!