Curved EPP shapes are easier than you might think!

Today I would like to chat to you all about curved EPP shapes and how they aren't as tricky as they might first appear.

Curved EPP Shapes

Traditionally in English Paper Piecing, we deal mostly with shapes that have straight edges, like the beloved hexagon. Straight sided shapes are easy to baste and sew, everything fits together and you can create some beautiful designs. Curved shapes are different because they often don't tessellate together, we would need to sew them using an appliqué method. They can be a bit off-putting because curves seem to go against everything we know about traditional patchwork, and often people are not sure where to begin.

However I love curved shapes in EPP! I think they add something unique and different to a piece. I also think they are really easy to handle, quick to sew together and you can create eye-catching and interesting projects with them. In tonight's Youtube video at 7pm UK time, I do a deep dive into curved shapes, showing you a whole range of shapes and explaining how to baste and sew them together. I really hope this video will be a great jumping off point to start you on your curved EPP journey, if you've never worked with them before. I share tips and methods to make dealing with curves really easy. So please look out for the video tonight and it would be lovely if you would become a subscriber if you aren't already. It's free and I share a new video every fortnight. 

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If you are feeling inspired and want to try curved shapes, over on my website, I have a whole host of patterns using them. First off there's the free patterns page where you can find patterns for the scissors case, tiny patchwork flowers and a flex frame purse, all using curved EPP shapes. 

In the online workshops section, I have a couple of classes you may be interested in. The Flower Power pincushion class is the perfect place to start. With detailed video lessons to walk you through each step, you'll master curved EPP in no time and have made a lovely pincushion too.

Also in the online workshops section, I have the Blossom Carry Casewhich features a hex petal flower on the top. This is a great introduction to curved EPP shapes and you will make a beautiful and very useful carry case too.

If you'd like to try clamshells, my Cosy Cottage Sewing Case is the perfect pattern to try them out and by the end you will have created a beautiful house shaped sewing case that is so fun to use. Clamshells look tricky but they are actually really really easy (you'll see in tonight's Youtube video). There are two options for making the Cosy Cottage Sewing case, pattern only or pattern with video workshop.

If you'd like to try something smaller, the Little House Notion Pouch pattern is a great introduction to small clamshells and the pouch is perfect for storing needles, threads and small scissors.

Little House Notion Pouch Pattern

Once you've worked with curves, it opens up a whole new world and you'll feel inspired to try new things like appliqué. My Flower of the Month designs are a great place to start. The EPP in the designs uses straight sided shapes and the flowers are created with curved appliqué shapes. They are a great way to use up scrap fabric and a lovely series to hang on your wall throughout the year. They also come with full video tutorials for each one.

Whatever you choose to make, I hope that you'll fall in love with curved shapes just as much as I have.

Dresden Flower

Cosy Cottage Sewing Case using clamshells

Flower Power Pincushion

Little House Notion Pouch

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The Continuous Stitching Method