basic english paper piecing tutorial

 Thought it was about time I did a basic tutorial on English paper piecing.

I'm sure most of you know by now how to do it,

so this tutorial is for those who are unsure and unaware

 just how simple the technique is.

 I'm using hexagons as they are the most common shape for epp

(english paper piecing)

Firstly you need to either make a template out of card to draw around or

find a multiple hexagon printout online.

A hexagon with 1 inch sides is a nice size to work with.

(or if these are a stretch..you can buy ready cut hexagons online)

 Pin your paper template to your chosen fabric and cut leaving approx 1/4 inch allowance.

 There are two ways to tack your fabric to your template.

The above is the correct way according to the 'quilt police'.

Never punching through the paper with the needle.

I find this way time consuming and not secure enough

especially with larger pieces.

 I tack my fabric onto the paper by passing my needle through the fabric and the paper.

 Like so.

 Make a few hexagons so you can begin sewing them together.

 Take two hexagons good sides together,

starting at one corner 

stitch over the ends

(whip stitch)

taking care not to catch the paper.

 To join the next one repeat the same as before.

 To finish sewing these three together start a new thread,

and sew from the centre out, 

I find it helpful to bend or fold the piece to the right.

So there are the three sewn together.

When you are sewing multiple hexagons

 make a longer thread and sew as many as you can in one go.

Things I have learnt.

I always tack in a coloured thread,

so when you come to cut out the papers the knots are easier to spot,

and therefore you are not likely to cut the wrong ones!

You can remove the papers as you go as long as you leave the leading edge intact.

paper piecing is flexible,

you may find that some sides don't quite match up,

don't worry,

with a little coaxing you can adjust as you sew.

I prefer to use a long fine quilters needle, 

but any needle will be okay to practice with.

I will update with answers to any of your questions.

I am currently working on a large hexagon piece.

If you would like to join in then hop over to my flickr group

The hexagons I'm using are 2 inches per side,

which is a really speedy way to see your creation grow.

If you are feeling even braver then join my patchwork planet flickr group,

to show where you do it...