A few weeks ago I happened upon something or other that gave me the idea of revisiting the English Paper Piecing branch of quilting.
After looking at a few books, I came across this one particular pattern which captured my attention. It is a small project - just around 11x14 inches - and even though the pieces in it are quite small, I figured I wouldn't mind fussing with it since I would only be making six 4" blocks.
My first attempt at a starflower is shown below. This sorry mess is the result of my decision to cut corners. I used a school glue, instead of the EPP glue. Additionally, I used cheap cardboard for a template rather than the slick paper available for the purpose. The tattered, distorted abomination shown here is absolutely unusable.
I worked on this about a week ago when my friend and EPP expert Becky was seated next to me. She watched as I destroyed this little star while removing the cardboard. She suggested that instead of gluing, I try the stitching method of folding fabric around the template. This is her preferred method; she says she believes this method results in little to no distortion and sharper points. I was willing to try. Becky is such a good teacher; she guided me through the process, although it is pretty straightforward.
After doing a few, the process becomes pretty fast, and I am rather surprised at how fast these little buggers can be cranked out.
I need 6 for the little project I want to make. Won't be long before I have them done, and will be moving on to the next step.
More details later. This old dog's gonna' practice her new trick with a few more starflowers.
Happy Quilting, Friends!
