How to Fussy Cut Shimmering Trees EPP Templates
By Paper Pieces for English Paper Piecing | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to fussy cut the Shimmering Trees pattern by Paper Pieces® for English paper piecing. Get step-by-step tips to highlight metallic details and avoid common mistakes.
Quick answer
To fussy cut Shimmering Trees EPP templates, position your template over the metallic snow and tree motifs so they sit centered in each shape, then cut leaving a consistent 1/4-inch seam allowance.
Why fussy cut this pattern
The Shimmering Trees quilt features evergreen trees with hints of silver and gold that sparkle against a simple background. Fussy cutting lets you control where those metallic details land inside each paper piece, so the final quilt has a deliberate, polished look rather than random cuts.
Because the finished quilt measures 12 by 27 inches, every piece matters. Taking time to position motifs now saves you from repositioning or patching later.
What you need
You will need the Shimmering Trees pattern (choose the free download or hard-copy), your EPP templates in the required shapes, fabric with visible metallic snow and tree motifs, a rotary cutter or sharp scissors, and a light box or window for tracing if the fabric is dark.
Step-by-step fussy cutting guide
- Identify the motifs: Lay your fabric right side up and look for the repeating tree and snowflake motifs with silver or gold accents. Mark the center of each motif with a removable fabric pen or pin. If the metallic details are small, use a magnifier or bright light to see them clearly.
- Position the template: Place your EPP template over the motif so the metallic element sits centered inside the shape. For tree shapes, align the trunk or treetop with the template center. For background shapes, position a snowflake or sparkle where it will be visible after stitching. Check that the motif does not fall in the seam allowance area—if it does, shift the template slightly.
- Trace and cut: Using a fine-tip fabric marker, trace around the template leaving a consistent 1/4-inch seam allowance. Cut along the traced line with a rotary cutter or sharp scissors. Avoid cutting too close to the template; a generous seam allowance makes basting easier.
- Baste and check: Fold the seam allowance over the template and baste as usual. Hold the piece up to the light to confirm the metallic detail is still centered. If it shifted, remove the basting and reposition. Basting with thread rather than glue gives you the flexibility to reposition without damaging the fabric.
Product facts
- Shimmering Trees by Paper Pieces®: Evergreen trees shimmer in the snow in this sweet winter wonderland-themed quilt. Hints of silver and gold in the fabric sparkle against a simple background. Fussy cutting ensures those metallic highlights sit prominently in each shape, making the quilt truly sparkle instead of losing the effect in random cuts.
Shimmering Trees by Paper Pieces®
