Reproduction Fabrics: March Newsletter

Have you been curious about English Paper Piecing (EPP)? Have you wanted to learn more about this timeless hand-sewing technique that allows you to create intricate quilt designs with precision and ease. By stabilizing fabric pieces with paper templates, EPP is especially useful for shapes like hexagons, diamonds, and other tricky angles that require set-in seams. Since it's done entirely by hand, it makes for a perfect portable project—great for stitching on the go!  

 

 

English paper piecing, or EPP, is the ultimate technique to piece a quilt top for those who want to add a little bit of creativity and versatility to their quilting projects! This traditional method of quilting has so many benefits that you'll be wondering why you haven't tried it before.

First of all, EPP is all about precision! By sewing fabric pieces onto a paper shape, you'll be able to create quilts that are pieced together perfectly every single time. This is especially helpful for quilters who are new to the craft or those who struggle with cutting and piecing accuracy. Imagine the feeling of accomplishment you'll have when your quilt looks like it was pieced together by a pro!

The 2025 Reproduction Fabrics Complex Stripe Stars Block of the Month is based on English Papers piecing. As you can see some these Stars we are able to get very detailed designs with this technique. Check out our Block of the Month page for details and videos on how these Stars were created.  Our monthly Block of the Month is full but if you would like to give these a try give us a call and we are happy to pull together a package for you. 

 

• Try a Small Project First – Before committing to a full quilt, test the waters by sewing a few hexagons to see if you enjoy the process.  
• Plan Your Layout – Graph paper and colored pencils can help you visualize different designs, whether you’re creating stars, diamonds, or multi-round motifs.  
• Save Time with Precut Papers–  We  offer a variety of different size and shape papers to get you started.  
• Choose the Right Fabric – 100% cotton fabrics work best for EPP. If using batiks, match your thread carefully, as the tight weave can make stitches more visible.  
• Fussy Cutting Made Easy – If you want precise fabric placement for a decorative effect, use a plastic template to plan and cut your fabric strategically.  
• Glue Instead of Thread-Basting – A water-soluble glue stick is a quick and easy alternative to thread basting your fabric onto paper templates.  
• Use the Right Thread – Basting stitches can be made with old thread in a contrasting color for easy removal. 
• Ditch the Pins – Mini clips, like Wonder Clips, hold hexagons together securely while you sew, without distorting the fabric.  
• Whether you’re new to English Paper Piecing or a seasoned hand-stitcher, this technique is a wonderful way to create stunning, heirloom-quality quilts. Give it a try and enjoy the relaxing, meditative rhythm of EPP!  

Here's a Clamshell quilt Margo is working on using English Paper Piecing.

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