Amanda and I have been following each other for many years now, prior to even starting The Maker’s Stash. She became one of my first Insagram EPP friends and we have been admiring and encouraging each others work ever since.
Grab a cuppa, get comfy and get to know Amanda and her beautiful creations.
Name: Amanda (aka @AmandaLovesToCreate)
Where are you from: I live in Canberra, Australia
When did you discover your love for EPP and how did you learn? I discovered Epp in early primary school c1970/71 when I started a hexagon quilt. My memory is that my teacher at the time introduced Epp to me. My mother was an avid sewer of clothes but did not make quilts.
What is your favourite EPP shape? Like many of us hexagons are a favourite shape and I also love jewel shapes and it’s variations (often referred to as petals).
Thread or glue baste: When I started out, I was a thread baster and looking back feel silly that I stitched through the paper as so unnecessary (in most cases), we certainly learn as we go. I finally discovered glue basting in 2019 and haven’t looked back. I found the perfect glue which is easy to use, doesn’t clump & inexpensive.
What thread and needle do you use? My go to needles and thread are Milliner No.15 by Sue Daley and The Bottom Line 60wt thread by Superior Threads. I’ve used Milliner No.11 & 12 also great for Epp.
Favourite fabrics to use in EPP: I love and create with all quality quilting fabrics including the beautiful Liberty Tana Lawn, featured in many of my projects.
What stitching method do you like to use on your EPP projects? My method of choice is whip stitch and I occasionally will embellish my Epp projects with a decorative embroidery stitch.
Do you have a favourite EPP tip to share: My best tip to all of you is try out different tools & notions to find what works for you and remember you don’t need a lot of gadgets for successful English paper piecing.
Favourite place to EPP: I have a lovely sunny corner of our loungeroom where I do the majority of my Epp. Weather permitting I’ll venture out onto our covered deck too.
What is your current EPP work-in-progress: I have multiple WIP’s and love the variety they provide. Keeping them well organized means I don’t get overwhelmed by them (there is a post of them in my Instagram grid).
What is your longest running EPP work-in-progress (or EPP project that took you the longest to finish): Â My oldest WIP is my first Epp project (yes, the one from c1970/71). It’s had some hexagons added to it recently and will be finished one day, a fabulous representation of 70’s fashion.Â
What is your favourite finished EPP project: Favourite finished quilt would have to be my first original design which was the 2022 Block of the Month for Ava & Neve. Of course this is equal to the quilts I made for my first 2 grandchildren.
What is on your EPP bucket list? Could be a particular pattern, shape or size: I have a long bucket list and recently started one, Farmers Wife 1930’s. I’m also keen to create a combination Epp and needle turn applique quilt.
Are there any other EPPer’s whose work you find inspiring? If you’re looking for inspiration check out a few of these lovely accounts on Instagram; @Surrur_sunday, @homewithalice, @Nicola_Picola and there are many more !
If you could travel anywhere in the world to EPP where would you go? Next year I’ll be lucky enough to do some Epp across UK & Europe and can’t wait!
Amanda is currently hosting a fun Sew Along on Instagram for her new vintage inspired quilt which she has named Daisy Chain (pictured here). To find out more pop over to her Instagram account or check out the hashtag she has created for the Sew Along #AmandasDaisyChainSewalong
I hope you have enjoyed getting to know my friend Amanda and have enjoyed seeing her beautiful English Paper Piecing creations. You can follow Amanda on her slow stitching journey over on Instagram.
Until next time dear friend, Happy Stitching.
Miss Leela xx