If you’re a fan of hand stitching and beautiful quilt patterns, English Paper Piecing (EPP) is a relaxing and satisfying technique worth exploring. This method involves stabilizing fabric pieces with paper templates before sewing them together. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to make an easy English Paper Pieced quilt from start to finish.
Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just starting out, this easy EPP quilt is perfect for using up fabric scraps and creating something both functional and artistic. You’ll get a detailed walkthrough, including fabric measurements and cutting instructions, to help you succeed.
This article is also optimized for anyone searching for quilt tips, quilt patterns, or simple hand-sewing techniques. Let’s dive into the calming world of English Paper Piecing.
What Is English Paper Piecing (EPP)?
English Paper Piecing is a hand-sewing technique where fabric is wrapped around paper templates and then stitched together. It’s especially popular for creating intricate shapes like hexagons and diamonds with precision.
Unlike machine sewing, EPP is done entirely by hand, making it a portable craft ideal for travel or quiet evenings. Each unit of fabric is basted to a paper template, then whipstitched to other shapes to build quilt blocks.
This method has been around for centuries and is often used in heirloom quilt patterns. Today, it’s gaining popularity again thanks to the slow-sewing movement and creative freedom it offers.
Materials You Will Need
To start this easy English Paper Pieced quilt, gather the following materials: quilting cotton fabric, paper templates (1” hexagons), fabric scissors or rotary cutter, hand sewing needle, thread, fabric glue or basting needle, and a small ruler.
Quilting cotton is ideal for its tight weave and wide variety of colors and prints. You’ll need approximately 1 yard of assorted fabric scraps in different prints and colors for a vibrant quilt top. The backing and batting will depend on your final quilt size.
Paper templates can be bought online or printed at home using template generators. Ensure they are uniform for best results when assembling your quilt pattern.
Cutting Your Fabric – Fabric Measurements and Prep
For a simple EPP hexagon quilt, each shape will be based on a 1″ hexagon template (measured on each side). You’ll need to cut fabric pieces that are 1/4″ to 3/8″ larger than your paper pieces on all sides.
If you’re making a small lap quilt or baby quilt measuring about 36″ x 42″, you’ll need around 350 hexagons. That means cutting 350 fabric pieces at approximately 2.5″ wide from edge to edge (for a 1″ hexagon with seam allowance).
Use a rotary cutter and acrylic ruler for precision. You can fussy-cut certain fabric motifs if you want standout quilt patterns in your finished piece.
Basting the Hexagons – Glue or Thread
There are two main methods for basting your fabric around the paper pieces: glue basting and thread basting. Glue basting is faster and works well for temporary adhesion.
To glue baste, center the paper template on the wrong side of your fabric piece. Fold the fabric edges over one at a time, applying a small amount of glue along each edge. Press down to secure.
For thread basting, use a long hand-sewing needle and run a stitch through the fabric fold and paper piece, securing each corner. This traditional method makes removing the paper easier later on.
Sewing the Hexagons Together
Once you’ve basted enough hexagons, arrange them into your desired quilt pattern. A common layout is the “flower” pattern with a central hexagon surrounded by six others, forming a rosette.
Using a whipstitch, sew the edges of two hexagons together with right sides facing. Stitch close to the edge using fine thread to reduce visibility. Continue joining hexagons one edge at a time.
Work in small sections to make the process more manageable. Group hexagons into flowers or rows before assembling the full quilt top.
Designing Your Quilt Layout
Before stitching everything together, lay out your basted hexagons on a flat surface or design wall. Play with color, print, and placement to create a pleasing composition.
Think about color contrast and pattern distribution. For a scrappy look, mix colors randomly. For a more structured quilt, alternate light and dark values or use repeating flower shapes.
Snap a photo of your layout once you’re happy with it. This will help you remember the placement as you begin stitching your sections together.
Removing the Paper Templates
Once all hexagons are joined and your quilt top is complete, it’s time to remove the paper templates. Only remove them after all sides of a hexagon are sewn to another, so the fabric keeps its shape.
Gently lift the seam allowance and slide the paper out. If you glue basted, you may need to loosen the glue slightly by rolling the edge or using a seam ripper.
Be careful not to stretch the fabric when removing the papers. Press the quilt top with a hot iron to smooth out any wrinkles before layering it with batting and backing.
Assembling the Quilt Layers
To turn your EPP quilt top into a finished quilt, prepare your quilt sandwich. Lay out the backing fabric (about 2″ larger on each side), place the batting on top, and center the quilt top over it.
Use quilting safety pins or basting spray to secure the three layers. For this project, you can use low-loft cotton batting to keep it soft and flat.
Smooth out any wrinkles and prepare for either hand quilting, machine quilting, or tying the layers together depending on your preference.
Quilting and Binding
For a hand-stitched finish, use a running stitch to quilt around each hexagon. This enhances the geometric pattern and keeps the layers secure. You can also quilt “in the ditch” along seam lines.
If you prefer machine quilting, straight lines across the quilt can add a modern touch. Choose a thread color that complements your fabric colors for a neat look.
Finally, bind the edges of your quilt with a 2.5″ wide double-fold binding. Sew the binding to the front, fold it over to the back, and hand-stitch or machine-stitch to finish your EPP quilt.
Tips for Success
Choose a variety of fabrics in color palettes you love. This ensures your finished quilt is cohesive even if it’s scrappy. Stick with 100% cotton for consistent behavior and durability.
Invest in quality tools like a sharp rotary cutter and milliner’s needles for easier hand sewing. A thread conditioner like beeswax can help prevent tangles and thread breakage.
Work a little each day. EPP is slow but satisfying—perfect for busy lives or those who enjoy meditative crafting. The more you stitch, the faster and more precise you’ll become.
Final Thoughts on Easy English Paper Pieced Quilt Patterns
English Paper Piecing is a wonderful way to explore the world of quilt patterns without the need for a sewing machine. Its hand-stitched charm and precision make it ideal for creating timeless quilts.
This tutorial gave you a complete overview of how to make an easy English Paper Pieced quilt—from cutting fabric to assembling and quilting your project. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your layout and enjoy the creative process.
Whether you’re a beginner or returning to quilting, EPP is a rewarding technique. Keep exploring different quilt patterns, shapes, and sizes, and watch your handmade masterpieces grow.
