How to Use 6" Winding Ways EPP Templates for Curved Shapes
By Paper Pieces for English Paper Piecing | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: How-to Guides
Learn to sew 6" Winding Ways EPP templates for smooth curved shapes. Step-by-step guide with common mistakes to avoid and tips for perfect seams.
Quick Answer
To use 6" Winding Ways EPP templates, baste your fabric around the curved paper pieces, then sew them together using flat or ladder stitches, matching the notches and easing the curves carefully.
Why Curved EPP Is Different from Straight Shapes
Winding Ways is a classic quilt block that features gentle curves, creating a sense of movement and flow. Unlike hexagons or diamonds, curved pieces require careful easing and matching of seam lines to avoid puckering or gaps.
The 6" size is generous, making it easier to handle than smaller curved templates. However, the larger curves mean you need to pay extra attention to seam allowance consistency and fabric grain to keep the block flat.
Choosing Fabric and Preparation
For best results, choose quilting cotton that is not too stiff or too flimsy. A medium-weight fabric will hold the curves well without adding bulk at the seams.
Pre-wash your fabric to avoid shrinkage after the project is complete. Press your fabric before cutting to ensure accurate template placement.
Tools You'll Need
Besides the 6" Winding Ways templates, you'll need fabric scissors or a rotary cutter, thread that matches your fabric, a needle for hand sewing, and clips or pins to hold the curves together while sewing.
A glue stick or basting spray can speed up the basting process, but many EPP enthusiasts prefer thread basting for curved pieces because it holds the fabric more securely.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using 6" Winding Ways EPP Templates
- Cut Your Fabric Pieces: Using the acrylic template as a guide, cut fabric pieces with a 1/4-inch seam allowance. For paper pieces, either cut fabric around the paper with the seam allowance or use the acrylic template to cut the fabric first. Ensure your seam allowance is consistent; a common mistake is cutting too close, which makes it hard to fold over the paper.
- Baste the Fabric to the Paper: Place the paper piece on the wrong side of the fabric. Fold the seam allowance over the paper and baste. For curves, clip the seam allowance at intervals to help it lie flat. Don't skip clipping; it prevents bulk and helps the curve ease smoothly.
- Arrange Your Pieces: Lay out your basted pieces in the Winding Ways pattern. Note the orientation of the curves—each piece has a concave and convex side. Make sure they alternate correctly to form the circular motif. A common mistake is placing pieces backwards; check the pattern diagram before sewing.
- Join the Pieces with Flat or Ladder Stitch: Place two pieces right sides together, matching the edges. Use a flat or ladder stitch to sew along the seam, starting and ending with a few backstitches. For curves, sew slowly and ease the fabric as needed. Do not pull the thread too tight; this can cause puckering. Keep the stitches small and even.
- Press and Remove Papers: Once all pieces are joined, press the seams to one side or open. Then remove the paper pieces gently. Your curved EPP block is ready to use in a quilt or other project. Remove papers only after the block is fully assembled to keep the shape accurate.
Product Facts
- 6" Winding Ways: 6" Winding Ways Block Papers and Acrylics. Paper Pieces & Acrylic Templates Sold Separately. For Quantities and Descriptions, Please Select Product Options Above. This means you can choose between paper pieces or acrylic templates, and you'll need to select the right option for your project—paper pieces are for hand basting, while acrylic templates are for cutting fabric accurately.
6" Winding Ways
