EPP for Beginners: Shapes and Starter Kits
By Paper Pieces for English Paper Piecing | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: Buying Guides
New to English paper piecing? This guide explains which shapes to start with, what to look for in a starter kit, and how to choose your first project.
Quick Answer
For your first EPP project, start with simple, straight-sided shapes like hexagons and 6-point wedges. A small pack of pre-cut paper pieces and a scrap-friendly pattern will let you practice without a big investment. Look for kits that include a variety of shapes so you can test which ones you enjoy stitching.
Why Shape Choice Matters for Beginners
The shape of your paper piece directly affects how easy it is to baste and stitch. Straight edges and wide angles are more forgiving than sharp points or curves. Hexagons are the classic starter shape because every edge is the same length and the 120-degree angle is simple to fold around. Wedges and diamonds are also beginner-friendly once you have a few hexagons under your belt.
What to Look for in a Starter Kit
A good starter kit gives you enough pieces to complete a small project without overwhelming you. Look for packs that offer multiple seam allowances so you can decide what works best for your fabric weight. Windowed papers let you see fabric placement, which is helpful for fussy cutting or matching patterns. A coloring page or layout guide can also help you plan your design before you start stitching.
How to Choose Your First EPP Shapes
- Start with hexagons or wedges: Both shapes have straight edges and wide angles that are easy to fold and stitch. Avoid diamonds with acute angles or curved shapes until you have more experience. Hexagons and 6-point wedges are the safest bets for a smooth start.
- Pick a small pack size: A small pack (60–111 pieces) is enough for a practice block or small project. Large packs are more economical per piece but can feel overwhelming for a first try. Small packs let you test the shape without a big commitment.
- Consider windowed papers for fussy cutting: Windowed papers have a cutout in the center so you can see fabric placement. They are helpful if you want to match patterns or center a motif, but they cost slightly more and require careful basting. Start with solid papers if you are just practicing; switch to windowed when you want precise fabric placement.
- Match seam allowance to fabric weight: A 1/4" seam works well for most quilting cottons. Use 3/8" for heavier fabrics or if you prefer a larger seam allowance for trimming. No-seam papers are for gluing, not traditional basting. 1/4" seam is the most versatile choice for beginners.
Recommended Products for Beginners
- Seasonal Wreath by Paper Pieces®: This scrap-friendly, reversible EPP wreath is made for changing with the seasons. Choose from 9 suggested colorways, raid your scrap bin for something completely your own, playing with ideas on the included coloring page. Make each side different and simply flip your wreath when you're ready for a change! Finished Size: 26 x 25-1/2" Uses 1-1/2" Hexagons. This pattern uses a single, beginner-friendly hexagon size and includes a coloring page for planning. Because it's scrap-friendly and reversible, you can practice with fabrics you already have and get two looks from one project.
- 1-3/4" 6 Point Wedge: The 1-3/4" 6 Point Wedge from Paper Pieces is a pre-cut paper shape for English paper piecing. It is offered in several pack sizes and seam options so you can choose what suits your project. Shape: 6 point wedge, 1-3/4". The 6-point wedge is a natural next step after hexagons. Its straight edges and wide angles are still easy to baste, but it opens up new design possibilities like stars and rosettes. Choosing a small pack (60 pieces) keeps your first experiment affordable.
Who Should Choose What
Best for
- Beginners who want a single, repetitive shape to master basting and stitching
- Crafters who prefer a scrap-friendly project with a clear layout guide
Not for
- Experienced EPP stitchers looking for complex curves or multi-shape designs
- Sewists who want a large, finished project right away
