One of the greatest joys of English Paper Piecing is its portability. It’s the perfect project to tuck into a bag and take with you, turning any spare moment into a creative opportunity. But the key to a successful on-the-go project is a well-stocked notions pouch. Having the right needle that glides through fabric, thread that doesn’t tangle, and perfectly cut paper pieces makes stitching away from home a breeze. This guide is dedicated to helping you assemble the perfect portable kit by exploring the best english paper piecing supplies that will keep you happily stitching, no matter where you are.

Key Takeaways

• ➤Prioritize quality over quantity with your tools: A fine needle (size 9-11), a strong yet thin thread (50wt or 80wt), and precise paper templates are the essential trio for creating sharp points and nearly invisible stitches.
• ➤Experiment to find your favorite basting method: Try both the quick and easy glue pen method and the traditional thread basting technique to discover which one gives you the best results and makes your prep work most enjoyable.
• ➤Create a portable kit for stitching anywhere: A small pouch with your essential tools, thread, and a handful of basted pieces makes it easy to enjoy EPP on the go and make progress in those small pockets of free time.

What Supplies Do You Need for English Paper Piecing?

English Paper Piecing, or EPP, is a wonderful hand-sewing technique that lets you create beautiful, precise quilts on the go. Whether you’re stitching on the couch, in the car, or at a guild meeting, having the right tools makes all the difference. Gathering your supplies is the first step to a fun and relaxing project, and thankfully, you don’t need much to get started! A few key items will set you up for success, ensuring your stitches are neat, your points are sharp, and your process is pure joy.

Think of it like packing a small bag for a creative adventure. You’ll need something to cut with, something to stitch with, and of course, the fabric and papers that form the heart of your design. Here is a list of the absolute essentials for your EPP toolkit. With these simple supplies, you’ll be ready to baste, stitch, and piece together a masterpiece, one perfect little hexagon at a time.

EPP Needles for Perfect Stitches

A great needle is your best friend in English Paper Piecing. Since you’re stitching through multiple layers of fabric and sometimes grazing the paper template, you need a needle that’s both strong and slender. Many EPP fans swear by Milliners needles. They are long and thin with a small, rounded eye, which helps them glide through fabric with ease and reduces hand fatigue. A size 10 or 11 is a fantastic starting point for most projects. Having a quality pack of hand-sewing needles will make your stitching smoother and more enjoyable from the very first stitch.

How to Choose the Right EPP Thread

The goal with EPP is for your stitches to disappear into the fabric, creating a seamless look. To achieve this, you’ll want a thread that is fine yet strong. A 50wt cotton thread is the gold standard for many quilters because it’s lightweight enough to be invisible but durable enough to hold your pieces together securely. When it comes to color, you can’t go wrong with a neutral shade like light gray, cream, or beige. A neutral quilting thread will blend in beautifully with a wide variety of fabrics, so you won’t have to switch spools for every color change in your project.

EPP Templates: Paper or Plastic?

The paper in English Paper Piecing is the secret to getting those perfectly crisp shapes and sharp points. You can certainly print and cut your own templates from cardstock, but using pre-cut paper pieces is a huge time-saver and ensures every piece is uniform. These papers are designed to be the perfect weight—sturdy enough to hold their shape but thin enough to be easily removed later. For fussy cutting or long-term projects, you might also consider acrylic templates. They are see-through, durable, and perfect for tracing shapes onto fabric with a seam allowance.

Scissors and Cutting Tools

In EPP, you’ll find it helpful to have two pairs of scissors: one for fabric and one for thread. A small, sharp pair of fabric scissors is perfect for cutting out your fabric shapes with precision. For trimming threads as you stitch, a pair of small embroidery snips is invaluable. Their fine tips allow you to get nice and close to your work for a clean finish. Keeping your scissors and cutting tools sharp and designated for their specific tasks will keep them in great shape and make your EPP prep work a breeze.

Basting Supplies for Easy Prep

Before you can start stitching your shapes together, you need to wrap your fabric around the paper templates. This is called basting, and it’s what gives EPP its signature precision. There are two popular methods: thread basting and glue basting. Glue basting is often faster and easier for beginners. Using a fabric-safe glue pen allows you to apply a thin, precise line of temporary adhesive to hold the fabric in place. It’s quick, clean, and holds everything securely while you sew, making the preparation process simple and sweet.

Your EPP Toolkit: The Absolute Essentials

Gathering your supplies is half the fun of starting a new project! With English Paper Piecing, a few key tools can make all the difference between a fun, relaxing experience and a frustrating one. The right supplies help you create those sharp points and perfect shapes that make EPP so satisfying. Need a shortcut? The Missouri Star EPP Beginner Kit contains all the essentials you need to start English paper piecing, all in a darling case with an English paper pieced flower design that makes it easy to grab and go! If you prefer to build your own, we'll walk you through the absolute must-haves for your toolkit, so you can spend less time wrestling with your materials and more time enjoying every stitch.

Needles for Perfect Stitches

A great needle is your best friend in English Paper Piecing. Since you’re stitching through multiple layers of fabric and paper, you need something sharp, strong, and slender. Many quilters swear by milliners needles, which are designed to glide through fabric with very little resistance. We recommend trying out John James Gold'n Glide, especially in a size 9 or 10. They are wonderfully sharp and make stitching feel almost effortless. A quality needle helps you make tiny, consistent stitches that will be nearly invisible on your finished project, giving your work a truly professional look.

How to Choose the Right Thread

When it comes to EPP, not just any thread will do. The constant pulling and tension can cause weaker threads to snap, which is the last thing you want mid-project! Your best bet is a strong, 100% cotton thread. Look for a 50wt or 40wt, as these are robust enough to hold your pieces together securely without adding extra bulk to your seams. Brands like Aurifil or our own Missouri Star brand are fantastic choices because their threads are smooth and durable. Choosing a neutral color like gray, cream, or beige is also a great tip, as it will blend in beautifully with most fabrics.

Templates: Paper or Plastic?

Here’s a question that comes up all the time: should you use paper or plastic templates? For the pieces you wrap your fabric around, lightweight cardstock is the way to go. Paper pieces provide the perfect combination of sturdiness to hold a crisp edge and flexibility to be easily removed later. While plastic templates are wonderful for fussy cutting your fabric, they are too rigid to be used inside the fabric shapes themselves. Stick with paper for your piecing—it’s the traditional choice for a reason and gives the best results for those sharp, perfect points.

Scissors and Cutting Tools

Precise cutting is the foundation of beautiful EPP. While you can certainly get by with a trusty pair of fabric scissors, adding an acrylic template to your toolkit can be a real game-changer. These sturdy, see-through templates are designed to be used with a rotary cutter and help you cut the perfect seam allowance around your paper piece every single time. This little bit of extra precision at the cutting stage makes basting and stitching your shapes together so much easier and more accurate. It’s a simple tool that makes a huge impact on your finished quilt.

Basting Supplies for Easy Prep

Before you can start stitching your pieces together, you have to baste the fabric to the paper templates. There are two popular ways to do this: thread basting and glue basting. Thread basting is the traditional method, where you use a needle and thread to tack the fabric down. Glue basting, on the other hand, uses a fabric-safe glue pen to secure the seam allowance. Many quilters find glue basting to be faster and easier, but it really comes down to personal preference. Why not try both methods to see which one feels most comfortable for you?

Our Favorite Brands for EPP Supplies

Once you know what you need, the next question is which brand to choose! With so many wonderful options out there, it can be a little overwhelming. Think of us as your friendly guide to the quilting aisle. We’ve gathered a few of our tried-and-true favorites that have never let us down. These are the brands we reach for again and again for their quality, reliability, and the beautiful results they help create. From perfect paper templates to thread that glides like a dream, here are our top picks for stocking your English Paper Piecing toolkit.

Missouri Star: Your One-Stop EPP Shop

We couldn’t make a list of favorites without a little shameless self-promotion! Here at Missouri Star, we’ve curated a collection of English Paper Piecing supplies with every quilter in mind. If you’re just dipping your toes into the EPP waters, you’ll find beginner-friendly kits that make starting a breeze. For our seasoned EPP friends, we have advanced patterns with intricate, artistic designs that offer a delightful challenge. We believe that having everything you need in one place makes the creative process so much more fun, leaving you with more time to stitch and enjoy the journey of making something beautiful by hand.

Aurifil for Flawless Thread

Ask any quilter about their favorite thread, and you’ll likely hear the name Aurifil. This cotton thread is a superstar in the quilting world for a reason! For the delicate, nearly invisible stitches required for EPP, many experienced stitchers swear by the 80wt Aurifil thread. It’s incredibly fine, which means your stitches will blend right into the fabric, creating a clean, professional finish. It’s strong enough to hold your pieces together securely but so lightweight that it won’t add any bulk to your seams. It’s the perfect little secret for making your handiwork look absolutely flawless.

John James for Quality Needles

A great needle can make all the difference between a frustrating afternoon and a joyful one. For EPP, you want a needle that’s sharp, strong, and glides through fabric with ease. Our go-to choice is John James Gold'n Glide Milliners needles, especially in size 10. These little beauties are exceptionally sharp, making it easy to pierce through both the fabric and the paper template without bending or snagging. They feel comfortable in your hand and make stitching feel smooth and effortless. When your needle works with you, not against you, you can settle in for hours of happy stitching.

Paper Pieces for Perfect Templates

While you can certainly make your own EPP templates, buying pre-cut ones is a fantastic time-saver that guarantees accuracy. For perfectly cut, high-quality templates, we have created our own selection of EPP papers and templates in a variety of shapes and sizes. They use a lightweight cardstock that is sturdy enough to be used multiple times but flexible enough to be removed easily once your pieces are stitched together. Using precise, uniform templates is the key to getting those sharp points and straight lines we all strive for.

How to Pick the Perfect Needle and Thread for EPP

Choosing the right needle and thread for English Paper Piecing is a bit like finding the perfect dance partner for your fabric—you want something that glides along smoothly without stepping on any toes (or, in this case, leaving big holes!). The goal is to create tiny, nearly invisible stitches that hold your pieces together securely. A fine needle and a strong, thin thread are your best friends in this process. They make the work easier on your hands and help your beautiful piecing, not your stitches, be the star of the show. When your needle and thread work in harmony with your fabric, you’ll find a lovely rhythm to your stitching, turning a simple task into a relaxing and rewarding part of the quilting journey. Let's break down the best options so you can find the perfect match for your next project and stitch with confidence.

Milliners, Sharps, or Appliqué Needles?

When you browse the aisle of hand sewing needles, you'll find a few great contenders for EPP. Milliner's needles are a popular choice; they are long and fine with a small, round eye, which helps them glide through fabric folds with ease. Sharps are a wonderful all-purpose option, with a medium length and a very sharp point that works well for most quilting cottons. Appliqué needles are typically shorter and very fine, giving you excellent control for detailed work. There’s no wrong answer here! Many quilters try a few types before settling on a favorite, so feel free to experiment to see which needle feels most comfortable in your hand.

Match Your Needle Size to Your Fabric

Once you’ve picked a needle type, it’s time to consider the size. Needle sizes work in reverse, so the higher the number, the finer the needle. For EPP, you’ll want a fairly fine needle, usually a size 9, 10, or 11. A size 10 or 11 sharp is a fantastic starting point for most quilting cottons. If you’re working with a fabric that has a tighter weave, like a batik or chambray, a finer needle will pass through the fabric more easily and prevent visible holes. The right needle shouldn't fight you; it should feel like it's effortlessly piercing the fabric as you stitch.

Cotton vs. Polyester Thread: Which Is Better?

The great thread debate! Both cotton and polyester have their fans in the EPP community. Many quilters adore cotton thread because it’s a natural fiber that tends to grip the fabric nicely, helping your stitches nestle in. A high-quality, fine cotton thread is strong and blends beautifully. On the other hand, fine polyester thread is known for its superior strength and smoothness. It can be a great choice because it’s very durable and less likely to create lint as you stitch. Ultimately, the best choice comes down to personal preference. It’s worth trying both to see which one you enjoy working with most.

Choose the Right Thread Weight for Invisible Stitches

To make your EPP stitches disappear, the secret is using a fine-weight thread. Thread weight is indicated by a number (like 50wt or 80wt), and just like with needles, the higher the number, the finer the thread. An 80wt Aurifil thread is a dream for EPP because it’s incredibly thin and practically melts into the fabric, making your stitches invisible. If you prefer something a little stronger and easier to handle, a 50wt thread is another excellent choice. It’s still very fine but offers a bit more strength, making it a reliable workhorse for piecing. Choosing a neutral color like gray, beige, or cream will also help your stitches blend with any fabric.

How to Avoid Common EPP Mistakes

English Paper Piecing is a delightful and relaxing process, but like any craft, it comes with a few little quirks. A small mistake can feel frustrating, but don’t fret! Most EPP hiccups are easy to fix and even easier to avoid once you know what to look for. Think of these tips as friendly advice from one quilter to another, designed to help you keep your stitches straight and your spirits high. From cutting your fabric just right to making sure no paper templates get left behind, a little preparation goes a long way. Let’s walk through some of the most common challenges and how to sidestep them for a smooth, joyful EPP experience. With these tricks up your sleeve, you’ll be piecing with confidence in no time.

Getting Your Fabric and Cutting Right

The foundation of beautiful EPP is accurate cutting. If your fabric pieces aren’t cut correctly, it can be tricky to get those crisp points and perfect shapes. Always aim for a consistent seam allowance, typically a quarter-inch to three-eighths of an inch, around your paper template. To ensure your fabric is perfectly centered, try aligning the wrong side of your fabric with the wrong side of the paper. If you’re working with light-colored fabrics, holding them up to a window or a light box can help you see the template outline clearly. Using a small rotary cutter and a mat can make this process much faster and more precise than using scissors alone, giving you clean edges every time.

Solving Thread and Tension Troubles

Nothing interrupts a peaceful stitching session quite like a tangled thread or a broken needle. To prevent knots, try working with a shorter length of thread—about 18 inches is a good rule of thumb. If your thread still tangles, a bit of thread conditioner can work wonders. Another common issue is tension. Stitches that are too tight can cause the fabric to pucker, while stitches that are too loose may leave small gaps between your pieces. Aim for firm, even stitches that gently pull the fabric edges together. And if you accidentally snip your fabric while trimming threads? It happens! For a tiny hole, a dot of fray check or a few careful stitches can often solve the problem without anyone ever knowing.

Managing Your Papers and Templates

Your paper pieces are the heart of your EPP project, so it’s important to treat them well! Before you begin, double-check that your EPP paper pieces are printed at the correct size, as even a tiny discrepancy can throw off your whole block. While it’s tempting to reuse your papers to save time and resources, be mindful that they can soften and lose their sharp edges after a few uses. If your points start looking a little rounded, it might be time for a fresh set of templates. Keeping your papers organized by shape and size in a small container will also save you from hunting for the right piece, making your project flow much more smoothly.

Perfecting Your Basting Technique

Basting is what holds everything together, so getting it right makes the sewing part a breeze. Whether you prefer glue basting or thread basting, the goal is to secure the fabric snugly around the paper template. If you’re using a glue pen, apply a thin line of glue to the edge of the paper and press the fabric over—too much glue can make the fabric stiff and difficult to stitch through. For thread basting, make large stitches across the back of the template, being careful not to stitch through the paper itself so it’s easy to remove later. Before you join your finished blocks, it’s a great idea to do a final check for any forgotten papers. Simply hold your quilt top up to a window; the light will shine through and reveal any templates you may have missed.

Where to Find the Best Deals on EPP Supplies

We all love a good deal, and building your English Paper Piecing toolkit is the perfect excuse for a little treasure hunting! Finding the right supplies at the right price feels almost as good as finishing a project. Whether you’re just starting out or adding to a well-loved collection, a little savvy shopping can make a big difference. The key is knowing where to look and what to look for.

From the charm of a local quilt shop to the endless aisles of an online store, there are fantastic finds everywhere. It’s all about weighing your options, keeping an eye out for special offers, and deciding whether a curated kit or a custom-picked collection is the right fit for you. Let’s break down how to get the most bang for your buck while stocking up on all your EPP essentials.

Shopping Online vs. Your Local Quilt Shop

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of walking into your local quilt shop, where you can see the vibrant colors up close, feel the texture of the fabric, and get advice from fellow quilters. Supporting local shops is a wonderful way to connect with your community and get that hands-on experience.

At the same time, shopping online offers incredible convenience and a massive selection. Here at Missouri Star, we pride ourselves on being a one-stop shop where you can find a huge variety of EPP patterns, papers, and tools all in one place. Online retailers often have competitive pricing and exclusive deals that are hard to pass up. Specialty shops also offer a curated selection, making it easy to find exactly what you need for your next project.

How to Spot Sales and Bundles

A quilter with a good deal is a happy quilter! One of the best ways to save is by signing up for email newsletters from your favorite shops. You’ll be the first to know about sales, new arrivals, and special promotions. (Psst… have you seen our Daily Deal? It’s a pretty sweet surprise every day!)

Bundles are another fantastic way to save. Fabric precuts are often more economical than buying yardage, and many brands offer packs of paper pieces for specific patterns. Also, keep an eye out for free shipping offers. Many online stores, including ours, offer free shipping once you hit a certain spending threshold, which is a great excuse to stock up on batting or thread. Planning your purchases around seasonal sales can also lead to some serious savings.

Starter Kits vs. Buying A La Carte

If you’re new to English Paper Piecing, a starter kit is your best friend. These kits take the guesswork out of gathering supplies by bundling everything you need—papers, a few fabric swatches, a needle, and thread—into one neat package. It’s the perfect way to dip your toes in the water without a huge commitment. Missouri Star offers a wonderful selection of EPP kits that are perfect for getting started on a fun new project right away, including our best-selling Missouri Star EPP Beginner Kit.

For those who have been stitching for a while, buying supplies a la carte makes more sense. You probably already have your favorite needles and a growing thread collection. Picking and choosing your supplies allows you to customize your toolkit, try new brands, and select the perfect fabric for a specific vision. It’s a great way to build a personalized collection that works perfectly for you.

How to Organize Your EPP Workspace

English Paper Piecing is a delightful journey, but it comes with lots of little pieces! Keeping your workspace tidy makes your stitching time more relaxing and productive. A little organization goes a long way, especially since EPP is the perfect craft to take on the road. Whether you're stitching at home or waiting at the doctor's office, having your supplies in order means you can pick up right where you left off. Let's get those hexies in a row and create a system that works for you.

Smart Storage for Templates and Supplies

A happy EPP project is an organized one! To keep everything straight, use clear tubs or labeled boxes. This way, you can see all your precious fabric pieces and templates at a glance. Small craft organizers with dividers are perfect for sorting paper templates by shape and size. You can also dedicate specific containers for your basted pieces versus your yet-to-be-cut fabric. This simple step prevents your project from becoming a jumbled puzzle and ensures all your hard work stays safe, sound, and ready for stitching.

Create a Go-To Portable Project Kit

One of the best things about EPP is that you can do it almost anywhere. To make your craft truly portable, put together a dedicated on-the-go kit. Find a cute notions pouch to house your essentials. Pack a handful of basted pieces, a loaded needle minder, a small spool of your favorite thread, and a pair of tiny, travel-safe scissors. Having a kit ready means you can take your EPP projects with you on a train or to a sports game. You'll be amazed at how much progress you can make in those little pockets of time!

Tips for Juggling Multiple Projects

Let's be honest, who has just one work-in-progress? When you're juggling several EPP creations, keeping them separate is key. Assign each project its own dedicated box or bag to prevent pieces from getting mixed up. This is also a great opportunity to experiment with different supplies. You might dedicate your favorite EPP needles to one quilt and try a new thread weight on another. Trying different brands of glues and threads for each project not only keeps things organized but also helps you discover what tools work best for you. It’s a wonderful way to make each project feel unique.

Ready for a Challenge? Try These Advanced EPP Techniques

Once you’ve gotten the hang of hexagons, it’s natural to wonder what’s next. English paper piecing opens up a world of creative possibilities, and with a few advanced techniques, you can create truly breathtaking designs. These methods will challenge your skills and help you make quilts that are even more intricate and personal. From graceful curves to razor-sharp points, let’s explore some fun ways to stretch your EPP muscles.

How to Tackle Curves and Complex Shapes

Moving beyond straight lines can feel like a big leap, but incorporating curves is what allows for truly dynamic and intricate designs. The key to success is patience and precision. When basting your fabric to the paper piece, take extra care to clip your curves so the fabric lies flat without puckering. Using smaller, closer stitches as you sew curved pieces together will help maintain a smooth line. It’s a good idea to start with a gentle, sweeping curve before trying a more complex shape. Mastering curves will open up a whole new library of patterns, from beautiful floral wreaths to stunning mariner's compass blocks.

Get Your Points to Match Perfectly

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as seeing all your points meet perfectly in the center of a star or pinwheel. Achieving that crisp, professional finish comes down to careful preparation. Start with precise cutting and ensure your seam allowance is consistent on every piece. When you baste, make your corners as sharp and tight as possible. As you stitch two pieces together, you can use a technique called "fudging," where you slightly adjust the papers as they meet to ensure the points align exactly. This little bit of extra attention makes a huge difference and is a hallmark of high-quality patchwork.

Add Beautiful Borders and Finishing Touches

A beautiful border is like the perfect frame for a piece of art—it completes the picture and makes the whole design pop. Adding a border can transform your EPP project from a collection of blocks into a stunning, cohesive quilt. You can create a simple border with long strips of fabric or design a more intricate one using more paper pieces. This is a wonderful opportunity for creative expression, allowing you to play with contrasting fabrics and designs. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box; a well-chosen border is the finishing touch that makes your work shine.

Create Your Perfect EPP Toolkit

Assembling your English Paper Piecing toolkit is a bit like putting together the perfect sewing basket—it’s a personal collection of treasures that make your stitching time a joy. While every quilter develops their own preferences, starting with a solid foundation of reliable tools makes all the difference. Think of it as a recipe for success: you can always add your own special ingredients later, but you need the basics to get started. The right combination of supplies not only makes the process smoother but also helps you create those crisp, perfect points you’re dreaming of. It’s all about finding what feels right in your hands and lets you focus on the fun of watching your beautiful mosaic come to life, one stitch at a time.

Our Favorite Supply Combinations

Finding your favorite EPP supply combination is a delightful journey of discovery. For a classic, can’t-go-wrong setup, many quilters swear by a combination of Milliners needles, 50wt cotton thread, and a trusty glue stick for basting. This trio is the workhorse of the EPP world for a reason—it’s efficient, reliable, and produces beautiful results. A great pair of small, sharp scissors for fabric and a simple pair for paper are also essential. When you put these items together, you create a workflow that feels seamless. You can find many of these essentials in our handy EPP starter kit that takes the guesswork out of getting started.

The Must-Haves vs. The Nice-to-Haves

To begin your EPP adventure, you really only need a few key items. These are the absolute must-haves: sharp needles, quality thread, your fabric, and your paper templates. A good pair of fabric scissors and a method for basting—either glue or thread—round out the essentials. Once you have these, you’re ready to stitch!

Then there are the “nice-to-haves,” the little extras that can make your process even more pleasant. A fabric glue pen, for example, offers more precise application than a standard glue stick. Magnetic holders like SewTites can be a wonderful alternative to pins or clips for holding pieces together, especially when working with trickier shapes. These aren't necessary, but they sure can feel like a little luxury.

Tools for Comfortable, Happy Stitching

Long EPP sessions are a wonderful way to relax, but they can be tough on your hands if you don’t have the right setup. Investing in tools that prioritize comfort is one of the kindest things you can do for yourself. A good thimble is a perfect example. It protects your finger and helps you push the needle through fabric with less effort, preventing strain. There are many styles out there, from metal to leather, and even adhesive thimble pads that stick right onto your finger. Finding the one that feels like a second skin will make your stitching feel effortless and keep you quilting happily for hours.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reuse my paper templates?

You certainly can! Most high-quality paper pieces are designed to be sturdy enough for several uses. The key is to be gentle when you remove them from your finished blocks. If you notice the edges are getting soft or your points aren't looking as crisp as they used to, it’s a good sign that it’s time to retire that template and grab a fresh one.

What's the real difference between glue basting and thread basting?

Think of it as choosing your favorite way to travel—both get you to the same beautiful destination! Glue basting is often faster and can feel a bit easier for beginners because it holds the fabric securely with very little fuss. Thread basting is the more traditional route; it keeps the fabric soft and pliable and some quilters simply enjoy the rhythm of the handwork. There is no right or wrong answer, so it’s a great idea to try both methods to see which one you enjoy more.

Do I have to remove the paper pieces when I'm finished?

Yes, the paper templates are a temporary guide and should be removed before you turn your project into a finished quilt. Once a piece is completely stitched to its neighbors on all sides, you can carefully pop the paper out. A pair of tweezers or the tip of a seam ripper can help you gently lift an edge of the paper so you can pull it out without disturbing your lovely stitches.

My stitches are showing! What am I doing wrong?

This is a very common concern, and it usually comes down to a few simple tweaks. For nearly invisible stitches, try using a finer thread, like an 80wt cotton, in a neutral color that blends with your fabrics. When you take a stitch, aim to catch just a few threads of fabric right on the folded edge. Keeping your stitches small and consistent will help them snuggle right into the seam and disappear from sight.

Is it better to start with a kit or buy supplies individually?

A starter kit is a wonderful, worry-free way to begin your EPP journey. It takes all the guesswork out of gathering supplies by bundling everything you need for a specific project, letting you dive right into the fun. If you already have a stash of quilting tools or a unique project in mind, buying your supplies a la carte allows you to hand-pick every fabric and tool to build a personalized collection that’s perfect for you.