English Paper Piecing

Today’s topic: English Paper Piecing (EPP)

Today's topic was inspired by the Our Time To Quilt video from Sunday. I didn't catch all of it but I did manage to come in towards the end ands Deb was talking about English Paper Piecing. Then I remembered that I had started to work on an EPP project but never finished. That makes it an UFO so it qualified to be able to work on it this month.

Do you know how to do EPP? If not, then this link might help you out.

https://mypoppet.com.au/makes/how-to-paper-pieced-hexies-template/

There are many ways to do your templates. One way is to trace your shape on cardboard, heavy paper, or posterboard. You can make multiple images on one page and cut out when you need them. A simple Google search will give you plenty to choose from.

Another option is to buy a template. I have done all of those options but finally settled on the quilt as you go template as my favorite. I got mine from Missouri Star Quilt Company and it is a quilt as you go template.  This one is for 2 1/2" hexagons.  When you try to buy a template like this, the 2 1/2" measure is the sides of the inner template.  In the picture, that would be the sides of the inside piece which has the writing on it.  I chose that size for a couple of reasons.  First is was a quilt as you go; second was the fact that the inner template fits a 5" square so I could use a charm pack.

Here are some of my hexies that I have made.

I do my hexies by hand but you can do yours by machine if you want.  My batch has both machine sewn and hand sewn hexies.  That reason is because I have been working on them for a bit. s I no longer have a sewing machine that makes decorative stitches.  I like to do hand stitching so it doesn't both me.  I cut out my hexies and have them layered and then hand baste them until I  am ready to do the final stitching.

How do I store them?  In my hexie box of course.  

I picked up this box from Hobby Lobby before I moved.   I don't know if they still have that particular design but the box works out very well.  It is called a spring box and the dimensions are 9.49 in x 7.0 in  by 4.02 inches.  The spring boxes come in various sizes.  Of course almost anything  can be used but these were made for archiving things so I thought that would be good.

What will I eventually make with them?  Believe it or not, I do have plans.  Basically  I need to search for some specialty fabric.  The fabric will be cotton of course.  I just need to find some with water, tiny stones or rocks, trees or shrubs , etc.  The hardest part will be with fountains or statuaries.  First of all I will search my stash.  The rough idea is in my brain and I just have to figure it out more.  IF the large garden project doesn't pan out, I can go back to one of the other versions which would have flowers and butterflies in it.  I never know until the end how it will work out or if I can keep my enthusiasm throughout the whole thing.  Wish me luck!

What else do I have to report on?  Ahhh, my blackwork and my applique swap.

I finished my applique block and it was sent to Garnet.  I also finished up my small blackwork project.

 

My block from 
Garnet

        My block to Garnet and a small blackwork piece

The writing on the blackwork is  "Have the  courage to follow your heart and intuition."

Current free Blackwork Project - first 5 weeks

The last thing to talk about is food.  As you know it is always on my mind.  LOL.  I made a broccoli and rice casseroled which turned out yummy.  I also added in some chicken that I had leftover.  

 I also saw a picture of a yummy casserole which I think I will make for Easter.  I'm sure I won't mind any leftovers.  What do you think?

That is it for this report.  Everybody have a great day.