English Paper Piecing
affectionately known as “EPP”
EPP is considered a great method for portable sewing projects due to its hand-stitching nature. The technique is also good for using up fabric scraps from other projects or recycling old clothing, and recycling junk mail for the papers.
Check out our calendar page for EPP and other “stitchy” events!
Key Points of Traditional EPP
Hand Sewing
- EPP is entirely done by hand, with fabric pieces being stitched together around paper templates.
Paper Templates
- The key element if using pre-cut paper shapes that act as a guide for wrapping the fabric around. The papers provide stability which allow for precise piecing.
Accuracy & Precision
The paper templates ensure precise stitching and consistent block sizes.
Intricate Designs
- Due to the ability to sew complex shapes, EPP allows for intricate and detailed patterns
Removal of Paper
- Once the fabric pieces are sewn together the paper templates are removed.
Portability
- Projects or parts of projects can be done almost anywhere, as no sewing machine is required.
Sustainability
- Great for scraps that might have otherwise been disgarded
- Great to repurpose the junk mail into shapes!
A wonderful resource for pieces, templates, guides, patterns, etc is Paper Pieces, a company with their headquarters in Paducah, Kentucky. They even make custom pieces.