What is the difference between Paper Piecing and English Paper Piecing?
‘Paper Piecing’ is often confused with ‘English Paper Piecing’. However, the two methods are completely different! Paper Piecing is actually a form of Foundation Piecing.
In Paper Piecing, a design—usually a quilt block or section of a larger pattern—is drawn directly onto a sheet of paper (the foundation). The fabric patches are then placed on top of the paper and stitched in place by sewing machine using the stitch-and-flip method. Once the block is complete, the paper foundation is carefully torn away.
English Paper Piecing (EPP), on the other hand, is an entirely hand-sewn technique that doesn’t require a sewing machine. In EPP, each paper shape is individually covered with fabric and then hand-stitched together using a whip-stitch or over-sew method to form intricate patterns. The paper pieces are removed once a shape is sewn in on all sides.
Both techniques have their advantages and allow quilters to create stunning, precise quilts with highly detailed designs.
The main advantage of English Paper Piecing is its simplicity and accessibility. It’s a low-tech, relaxing craft that requires minimal tools—perfect for travel or quiet, mindful moments. Many quilters also find the meditative hand-stitching process beneficial for their overall wellbeing. The method is easy to learn and delivers excellent results with little formal training.
In contrast, (Foundation) Paper Piecing can be more complex and technically demanding—particularly for beginners. Because it requires sewing precision and following numbered patterns, it’s best learned in a workshop setting under the guidance of an experienced instructor.