The first Mystery project of 2024 for the Sip Tea and EPP party is almost here! This time around, Larisa and I have something special for you: we are going to introduce you to the lesser-known but equally delightful EPP shapes. Say goodbye to the usual hexagons and diamonds, because we will be exploring octagons and squares!
Prepare all your supplies and get ready to discover how to create practical and sweet makes that will beautifully complement our previous sewing projects. We believe that when it comes to making sewing accessories, there is always room for more! In this blog post you will find out about all the supplies and fabric choices you need for this exciting project.
Materials:
Two page printable templates (download here). Check the measurements of the one inch test square on the pages to ensure the accuracy of the printing. The templates are full-size.
Please note that seam allowance is not included. We will be adding ¼” (0.6cm) seam allowance (SA) to the octagon and square pieces before cutting fabric.
(2) fabric scraps large enough to cut 1” octagons with ¼” (0.6 cm) SA
(8) fabric scraps large enough to cut 1” squares with ¼” (0.6 cm) SA
(2) 9” x 9” (22.9cm x 22.9cm) fabric for the base
(1) 9” x 9” (22.9cm x 22.9cm) single sided fusible or regular batting
Let’s go through the list of the required supplies for this make. Please DO NOT CUT your fabrics yet! Just go through your stash and pick the prints you would like to use for this project.
1. Octagons
You will need one piece of fabric featuring a lovely print or fussy cut design, paired with another piece of solid fabric preferably in a lighter shade. This lighter fabric won't be visible once the project is complete, but it will provide essential support and structure to your creation.
If you would like this make to complement the previous makes you created with us, then choose the same or similar fabrics. If this is your first time sewing with us, then choose the fabrics you really like.
I decided to use my favorite print from Belle and Boo. It has been so gray and rainy here that I have been longing for spring. Those adorable bunnies and pretty flowers sing spring to me. They will also add a touch of charm and whimsy to my project. I also found a perfect light scrap that would perfectly work for the second octagon.
2. Squares
Select coordinated fabrics for both the octagons and squares. When it comes to the fabrics for the squares, the choice is yours: you can choose solid colours or prints. Each square can showcase a different colour, bringing vibrancy into the design with a hint of "colour blocking" style. Alternatively, for a more cohesive appearance, consider using the same colour for all eight squares while incorporating variations in prints. This approach gives a unified and harmonious look to the piece. With this flexibility, the possibilities are endless, enabling you to create a truly unique and personalised piece.
I selected two options, and at the moment I can't decide which one I like the most.
The first option, mainly "Make time" fabric collection by Aneela Hoey, has light colors and would highlight the fussy cut.
However, the second alterative, "Lighthearted" fabric collection by Camille Riskelley, with beautiful coordinating spring colors would draw the attention to the chosen element of the item and turn it into a focal point.
It is a difficult decision that ultimately comes down to the desired look and the intended effect of the fussy cut in the project. Perhaps I just have to make two😊. Actually taking photos of the fabrics really helps to choose the right prints and fabric placement. I must admit that I did quite a few changes before I took those photos.
3. Base fabrics (large octagon)
Using a base fabric in coordinated or contrasting colours compared to the octagon and square fabrics can produce a visually striking and dynamic effect. Coordinated fabrics feature similar colours or complementary designs, while contrasting fabrics showcase different colours or patterns. Both methods offer opportunities to infuse depth and intrigue into the project, enabling creative expression and personalisation.
Another option is to use low volume fabrics for the base, as they provide a subtle and understated background that allows the other elements of this project to shine. Low volume fabrics typically feature light colours and small-scale prints, giving a soft and delicate appearance. By blending low volume fabrics with printed or solid-coloured squares and octagons, you can achieve a balanced and harmonious design overall.
I'm going to use the low volume fabrics from Aneela Hoey's "Make time" collection. Although I haven't chosen whether to use both prints or simply one, having options is a good thing.
4. Batting
You will need a piece of single sided fusible batting or regular batting. Why use fusible batting? We believe that fusible batting gives a nicer structure to the final make and lightness as well as it gives your make better stability and shape retention.
However, I don´t have fusible batting in my stash; therefore, I will use regular medium loft batting.
We hope these tips and suggestions will assist you in selecting the perfect fabrics for this mystery project. We are looking forward to sewing with you again!
Most importantly, have fun!
Irina and Larisa ❤