Helen Hazon – Time #3
English paper piecing
Moving on in my series to the early 19th century when English paper piecing (EPP) was a popular technique for patchwork.
EPP is a simple method in which fabric pieces are stitched around paper templates then the covered pieces are stitched together along their edges to create the planned design. The shapes traditionally used for the paper templates are all geometric – squares, triangles etc. and all stitching was, of course, by hand. I have modernised the method and used completely non-regular shapes in my design and I have stitched by machine throughout. I have used all cotton fabrics but in a bright colour palette. I have added surface stitching to enhance the overall design.
FIFTEEN BY FIFTEEN 
A very delicate creation with a combination of color and very interesting outlines. I also really appreciate the paper piecing .
What an interesting way to interprete paper piece ! the result is very effective and I like your choice of colours.
Helen so thoughtful to walk us through the technique. Your colours pop against the background and the additional outlying adds sophistication to your quilt. A great addition to your series.
You can of course call EPP a simple method, but there is no doubt that you have put a lot of work into this piece! I am particularly impressed by the curved lines. Very beautifully done.
I really like the colors you have used.
Thank you for showing your technique, it sure doesn’t look simple. But the result is just astonishing and worth of hard work you had to do.
I am really interested in the way that you have used machine stitching to join each of your paper pieces, and I am very impressed at how you have managed the complicated shapes. Great work and very effective.
Lovely piece. Your way of paper piecing gives a new perspective on the technique. Great colors and graphic design. Beautiful attention to details. I love it!
Great to see how you constructed what, at first glance seemed a very neat appliqué. Lovely colours, striking piece of work beautifully stitched. Great work!