EPP vs FPP
Anytime quilters discuss “paper piecing,” the immediate clarifying question is, “Do you mean English paper piecing (EPP) or Foundation paper piecing (FPP)?” The names are so similar, surely they’re the same technique? Right? While they share some similarities, the two techniques are actually quite different. Let’s explore that today!
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As the name implies, the greatest similarity between foundation paper piecing (FPP) and English paper piecing (EPP) is their use of paper. In both techniques, paper is used to both shape and stabilize the fabric as it is pieced together, and in both cases the paper is removed from the back side of the quilt top prior to basting and quilting. Beyond that, though, the similarities quickly fade.
English Paper Piecing (EPP)
English Paper Piecing dates back to the 18th century in jolly ol’ England, and is a precision piecing method stitched entirely by hand. English Paper Piecing is made up of tessellating shapes, meaning that the same shape or shapes are used over and over again in a way that interlocks, like a kaleidoscope.
To English paper piece, the quilter first bastes pieces of fabric around the paper shapes with glue or thread, then hand stitches each piece to its neighbors using a whip or ladder stitch. Provided they are removed gently, the paper pieces may be reused to continue the pattern.
Resources
Check out our EPP supplies HERE
Read an EPP tutorial HERE
Download a FREE introductory pattern for Aurifil HERE
Foundation Paper Piecing
Foundation Paper Piecing (FPP) is a more modern precision piecing technique. It is used to create a “paint-by-number” effect on on the quilt top and is often used to create illustrations of objects or animals, rather than a mosaic pattern.
For FPP, the designs are drawn or printed on paper, and the fabric is sewn by machine to the paper, piece by piece, in a specific order to create exact though irregular shapes. The paper cannot be reused once removed.
Resources
Join the 2023 Endangered Species thread subscription and BOM HERE
Check out our other Foundation Paper Piecing supplies HERE
Read an FPP Tutorial HERE
Final Thoughts
If you’re new to either of these techniques, I strongly encourage you to try them out! One of my favorite things about both is that I can get crisp, precise piecing without endless hours of crisp, precise cutting before hand. EPP is very portable, and FPP appeals to my painterly nature. So give them a go— you might just find a new favorite adventure!
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