30 April

If you've ever dreamt of tackling a really ambitious quilting project, let me tell you, a coffin quilt made with English Paper Piecing (EPP) is an experience like no other! When I first envisioned this project, it wasn't just about the unique shape; it was about creating a striking art piece, a conversation starter, and pushing my hand-sewing skills to the limit. The idea of assembling 1080 individual coffin-shaped fabric pieces felt daunting but incredibly exciting, and watching it come to life over several months was so rewarding. English Paper Piecing was the perfect technique for this project, especially for getting those precise coffin angles just right. Each piece started with a paper template – carefully cutting those 'colorful and black coffin-shaped fabric pieces' and basting them around the paper was a meditative process. My top tip for anyone attempting EPP with intricate shapes: invest in good quality, reusable templates, and a very sharp pair of small scissors. Whether you prefer glue basting for speed or thread basting for precision, finding a method that works for you is key. When it came to joining them, finding that rhythm with a tiny whipstitch, making sure to just catch the fabric folds, made the thousands of stitches fly by (well, almost!). Precision in EPP is what makes your finished quilt top lie perfectly flat. After assembling the monumental quilt top, the hand-quilting began, which felt like a whole new journey. There's something incredibly satisfying about the texture and character that 'hand-quilting stitches' add, especially on a piece with such a unique motif. I chose a simple echo quilting design that complemented the coffin shapes, focusing on even, small stitches. Achieving consistent stitches takes practice, often requiring a good thimble and mastering the 'rocking stitch' technique. It's not just about the final look; it's about the connection you feel to every fiber of the quilt as you slowly work your way across it. Don't be afraid to take breaks and admire your progress – a big quilt like this needs to be moved around, and working in sections on a hoop can help manage its size. A project of this scale, spanning months from April to December, definitely tested my patience and dedication! There were days when my progress felt incredibly slow, but seeing those photos of the quilt growing from a small section on the sofa to a large, assembled top on the wooden floor, and eventually draped on the bed, truly kept me motivated. My little furry helper (my small dog!) was often by my side, sometimes 'helping' by napping on the growing pile of fabric. Remember to celebrate those small victories, like completing a certain number of blocks or finishing a section of quilting. It’s also important to take care of yourself – stretch often, ensure good lighting, and listen to your body to avoid strain. Now that my unique coffin quilt is nearly complete, the sense of accomplishment is immense. It's more than just a blanket; it's a testament to dedication, patience, and the joy of creating something entirely by hand. If you're looking for a project that challenges your skills, results in a truly one-of-a-kind heirloom, and offers countless hours of meditative handcrafting, a hand-sewn English Paper Pieced coffin quilt might just be your next adventure. It's a statement piece that truly tells a story.