Curved Wedge vs Pentagon EPP: Choosing Your Next Shape
By Paper Pieces for English Paper Piecing | Published: 2026-11-01
Category: Comparisons
Compare the 144 degree curved wedge and the pentagon for English paper piecing. Learn how curved vs straight EPP shapes differ in basting, layout, and project fit.
Quick answer
Choose the 144 degree curved wedge when you want to build circular or fan-shaped motifs and are comfortable basting curved edges. Choose pentagon EPP pieces when you prefer straight-edge piecing and a shape that locks into many traditional blocks.
Why curved and straight shapes demand different skills
The 144 degree curved wedge has an arc that requires you to ease fabric around a curve during basting. That extra step can slow you down, but it opens up circular designs that straight pieces cannot achieve alone. The pentagon, by contrast, has only straight edges, so basting follows the same fold-and-stitch rhythm as squares or hexagons. If you are new to EPP, start with the pentagon to build confidence before adding curved shapes to your repertoire.
Design possibilities and limitations
The curved wedge is a component shape: it is designed to combine with other pieces to form a block. The catalog notes that the wedge alone will not create the block shown in the image; you also need 1-1/4" pentagons and two sizes of diamonds. That means the wedge is best for planned, multi-shape projects rather than standalone motifs. Pentagons, on the other hand, can be used on their own in simple rosettes or repeated in tessellations. They are more forgiving if you want to experiment without committing to a complex layout.
Size and scale considerations
The 3/16" pentagon is a very small piece, which makes it ideal for detailed, miniature work but demanding on your basting accuracy. The 1-1/4" curved wedge is larger and may be easier to handle, though its curved edge still requires care. Match the piece size to your comfort level and the scale of your project; smaller pieces multiply the number of seams and the time required.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Basting difficulty: Curved wedge: requires easing fabric around an arc, which can cause puckers if not done carefully. Pentagon: straight edges are simpler to baste and more forgiving for beginners. Practice on a single wedge with scrap fabric before committing to a full project.
- Design flexibility: Curved wedge: unlocks circular and fan motifs but only as part of a multi-shape block. Pentagon: works alone or in combination, offering more immediate layout options. Sketch your intended block before buying to confirm you have all required shapes.
- Project scale: 3/16" pentagon: extremely small, suited to miniature quilts or detailed applique. 1-1/4" curved wedge: larger scale, better for wall hangings or bags where curves are a focal point. Consider your timeline; tiny pieces take significantly longer to baste and assemble.
Product facts
- 1-1/4" 144 Degree Curved Wedge: 1-1/4" 144 Degree Curved Wedge papers and acrylics are sold as wedge only; creating the block shown requires additional 1-1/4" pentagons and diamonds. Plan to purchase complementary shapes if you want to reproduce the full block, and budget for the extra pieces.
1-1/4" 144 Degree Curved Wedge - 3/16" Pentagon: 3/16" Pentagon papers and acrylic templates are sold separately. You can choose papers for basting or acrylics for cutting, but you need to add both to your cart if you want a complete setup.
3/16" Pentagon
Which shape should you choose?
Best for
- Quilters ready to tackle curved piecing and multi-shape blocks
- Makers planning circular or fan-themed projects
Not for
- Beginners who have not yet mastered straight-edge EPP
- Anyone wanting a standalone shape that requires no additional pieces
