The habit I’d like to share is as I get older my hands are giving me problems and get painful & sore. I find doing a few EPP pieces, the cutting, glue basting and sewing like a few together at a time is easier on my hands vs Repetition only one thing over and over is harder on me.
Good idea! I was even thinking to spray starch the basted and stitched-together EPP shapes before removing the papers, to keep a bit of structure even after the paper templates have been removed.
Have you done a video on putting blocks together please. I am making a large hexi quilt and am a little daunted about hand sewing blocks together. Many thanks for your informative videos as they are very much enjoyed and appreciated. Take care and happy quilting xx
On cutting and basting, for hexagons (1” and larger for sure, maybe even smaller) I really, REALLY like to using squares. A 2.5” square is perfect for a 1” hexie and a 5” square is perfect for a 2” hexie. You have a little extra on the back, but you never have to worry about your seam allowance being too small and cutting out your fabric is quick, efficient, and stress-free with little waste (or hey, precut bundles if you roll that way 😉).
Same here!! Cutting the fabric around the template is what almost discouraged me from EPP and hexies. Then, watching someone's video, I thought, well why not!! I still pick up many other good tips from those that do like to cut their hexies like that, though. Since I only do big stitch quilting anymore, anyway, I don't have any trouble quilting with the extra fabric in the hexies. I tried it, with a finished shape and scrap batting & backing because it did make me wonder...I love being able to use leftover quilt squares that I just cut to size and put in my hexie basting box. Then I put the basted hexies in a divided box I found in the container area of our craft store. It has a shallow tray for scissors , needles, and my half empty bobbins I'm trying to empty. Good latches and a handle, on it, too.
Great video, Emma. Yes, I'd like to see a video on how to make EPP more cost efficient. Thanks for asking. I couldn't tell by watching your video if you did this or not, but when I continuous sew from one seam to another, I slip my needle underneath the fabric from where I tied my knot to where I begin the new seam. This way the thread is hidden underneath the seam allowance. I love EPP!! It so relaxing.
Thank you Emma, love the needle threaded tips. I will be getting one of the table threaders and making a hexi needle holder. One tip I was recently given was to use a "purple thing" to remove papers I had glued in. It really saved my fingers and stopped fabrics fraying.
@@emmajonesvintagesewingbox sorry I spelt it incorrectly. It's "That Purple Thang" by Lyn Graves. It's purple and plastic. I had seen it used to push out corners, it has a 1/4 inch tip on one end and on the other a curved tip which is, perfect for sliding under the fabric and releasing it.
I just found one of those threaders in my stash, looking for something else...and I've hardly used it! Now, I will!! And I'll make a needle holder for them. ☺️
I have a hybrid baste lol, I have 5" squares of fabric , I cut these in to 4 then using a glue stick I put one dab of glue in the centre of the shape card , and Bob that on to the centre of the fabric , then I trim them when I have a pile of 100. Then I sit and stitch baste ,I do all of this whilst listening to you tube and peddling on my under dest step machine so I really multi task lol .
Hmmm, your idea of using your gluestick sounds intriguing. I use a Wonder clip to hold my fabric to the template while I baste around. But, gluestick may give me even more of a head start. I also use those sweet little clips to hold my hexies together while I stitch them together. It's amazing how that has reduced the achy-ness in my hands!! I tend to stitch about 1/16th of an inch together (a millimeter apart?), so my hand is rather stiff, soon. Or they were, till I started using the clips!
So many great tips that can apply to other hobbies/crafts as well. Thank you Emma for making this video and sharing your knowledge with us. Would you be able to make a short video about keeping notes? I have to admit that I am pretty bad at this, and have had to restart projects because I never write any notes.
Very helpful, thank you Emma! Since I’m a fairly new EPP stitcher, I appreciate learning the right helpful habits right from the start, rather than going my own way likely learning some unproductive habits, and then having to ‘unlearn’ them later. I agree with your suggestion to remove the papers as you go, especially as I plan to re-use the papers (because those shapes can get quite expensive!). ❤Your video is much appreciated.
Hello! I just stumbled on this video while watching some other quilting channels, and have to say thank you for all these tips! I have an EPP hexagon project I’ve been working on since 2017 (I know… 🙈😂), and this is going to help me loads with getting more efficient when I do work on it! The method you use for cutting was SO HELPFUL! I’d been on the fence about getting a rotating mat, but I think I’m going to treat myself to one to help with cutting small projects! ❤
I'm just starting EPP. I am retired and traveling more. Need a small hobby to do and this looks perfect. Your good habits will help me to get started. Love your show Emma
Great suggestions. I know when my children were small, I could only stitch for a few minutes at a time. But to my surprise, i was getting more projects done than I expected to do that year. So even small amounts add up to getting things done. You are right in all your recommendations.
I have been working on a large hexi flower quilt for quite a while. I have found that breaking things up into smaller chunks has made it easier, and it feels like I am making more progress. For instance; I am using layer cakes for my fabrics, so I cut one whole layer cake at a time, then moved on to basting enough hexis to make the flowers for one row and sewed the flowers for that row. Once those flowers were done, I placed them into a baggie and did the next row of hexies and flowers. I am saving the rows to do all at once, but having them already planned and packaged together will save me time at the end, and it helps to be able to see the empty baggies and emptying basket indicating my progress.
Really nice and informative video - short and succinct. Thanks. I learned many years ago that when I finish for the day, if I prepare even one needle for my project I am more likely to pick up my project and stitch on a regular basis because I don't have to spend time threading a needle. So thanks for reinforcing that lesson.
Using a thread conditioner like Thread Magic helps avoid tangles in my thread, trying to untangle my thread used to slow me down so much because I like to use long lengths of thread so I can sew a lot without replenishing
Thank-you for the tips, I have some of those fancy threaders, and lots of glasses of differing strengths from years past. Years ago I was shown a simple pre-threading trick. Using a reel of thread and a packet of needles, and a traditional wire threader. Thread the whole packet of needles onto the threader, pull the thread through all of them at once. Hold needles flat against the reel with one thumb. Pull out enough thread for the first needle in line and a bit to wrap all of the other needles against the reel. Take off the first needle with it's thread, cut and wrap the rest close to the thead on your reel. As you empty your needles put them back in the needle packet, can your threader stay in the packet? When all are emptied, re-thread the lot again. This is a much smaller use of space, handy for on the go sewing. If you have to put your work aside, for a time, unthread the needles to prevent contamination of thread and needles, or use them in another current project. You could also use this method with your 10 needle holder. Did you know about those modern plastic reels, having a space inside, you pull off an end cap and have a needle space inside, make sure the cap is back on, securely. Check it out? That one is handy for travelling. Please be careful, your close to dylight light, may as fluorescent light does have UVA and UVB in them which is the bit that burns you and causes skin cancer.
Thank you for the tips Kathleen, very useful. The light I am using is not the type of light you have described. It is not a fluorescent tube and doesn’t not emit uv or anything like that. It cannot cause cancer. I would not use or endorse something that wasn’t safe. It’s a special LED bulb that replicates daylight. I think you are thinking of the sunbed type lights and it isn’t anything like that at all. I hope that clears it up. Thanks for watching
Thank you so much Emma you are a true inspiration and are giving me my sewing mojo back. Please can I ask if you can share some more of your embroidery hexagons and sashiko please
Thank you, Emma for all the tips. I have always waited to sew my Hexie flowers together, wanting to lay them all out together! I have several ready to go together and will start. I also have the round needle holder....and have never used it! So I am going to go dig it out and get my needles threaded. Thank you again. Take care
Wonderful tips in this video. I am making large hexagons in floral fabrics and wonder how to quilt the center spaces. Do I quilt a six-point flower shape or can I use Kantha stitches? Do I do the quilting on individual blocks or wait until the blocks are pieced together? This is my first quilt so I’m learning as I go. Thanks for your wonderful channel which I really enjoy viewing and listening to.❤
You can quilt in any shape or design you would like, and it's up to you whether you do the centres or not, just do whatever you like the look of. But you will need to do it when the blocks are all joined together and layered up with wadding and backing fabric. Hope that helps
Another great video! Emma, could you do a video on how to add a border to an EPP quilt? I would like to appliqué a border to my EPP quilt but with corners I need help. I am making Sharon Burgess’ Prudence quilt. Thanks for all these great tips.❤
thanks Lisa. It would be a bit tricky for me to make that video because I would need a quilt that needs a border so I could show it. Perhaps Sharon has some videos or blog posts to help?
Very good ideas for good habits! I'll try to keep them in mind as I begin this EPP journey! I'd love to hear your budget ideas! Also, I don't know if you've said what kind of THREAD you use to do the piecing...? And do you have your thread double or single strand? Thanks! 😊 I'm loving your channel!! 🎉
Dear Emma: Once again, I totally enjoyed listening to you & agreeing with you on many of your tips. Many I already do, and I’m not a quilt maker! Your other tips are so encouraging that I am slowly considering the idea of trying to make a small hexagon item, in order to try hand sewing in small batches!! And yes, excellent lighting & having clear vision is crucial to anything we do with our eyes, even just reading & watching TH-cam videos!! As always, it was a wonderful experience watching you this morning(it’s 7am in CA) as I sipped my tea in a very quiet house!! Have a lovely week!! Thank you!!
Such a great video - thank you so much for helping us to sew efficiently. Lots of great ideas, and you explain everything beautifully! I'm going to buy one of the desk needle threaders and hopefully one of the lamps! Xxx
Such great suggestions! Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom based on experience. I love that! I remember doing a project awhile back for my parents' anniversary. I was working full time and had a toddler at home with special needs. I didn't think I would make it but I broke it down, as you said, and left things where I could pick right back up. I would try to carve out at least 15 minutes a day. Long story longer, I finished the project! So, I know, even the smallest bits of time can move us forward. Thank you, Emma!
I often do some preparation or hand sewing when I talk to my sister on the phone. Given that we speak once a week for about 2 hours at a time ( we are retired of course, lol), I get quite a lot done. I sometimes leave those little jobs to do just for that period of time and it’s very satisfying. Great tips Emma and given that I am another Aussie, the glue tip is especially good - I don’t know why I didn’t think of it! Cheers 😀🇳🇿
Threading several needles at the beginning of a hand sewing project is brilliant! I have always filled several bobbins at a time for a sewing machine project, but never thought about the needles!!! Duh! Thank you!❤
Try using a thin wadding instead of paper , to back your hexies it gives a bouncy hexie shape and saves any further wadding unless you want it, I sue one that has glue one side So it stays in place nicely, Hexiform for a very large quilt worked out to expensive to use,, but I feel the effect was as good,
Hi Emma, I’m having problems with hand sewing hexagons together I’m left handed !please can you do a video on how to get these stitches neatly and not showing on right side, you make such beautiful pieces, I’ve just found you ,thank you so much.😊
I will do, but using the whip stitch, the stitches will always show on the other side as that’s the nature of the stitch. I would suggest you change your thread to something finer and try to colour match. The other thing you could do is look up the flat back stitch. It’s not a stitch I do as I find it slow, but it’s a method that doesn’t show the stitches on the front so you might like it. Aside from that, I would say embrace your stitches because they show your piece is handmade and show how much work went into it
Great tips Emma. I must get better at taking notes on my projects, especially crochet as I can’t always remember the name of the pattern or what size crochet hook and this can obviously mean a lot of work goes wrong!! Or has to stop 🥺
Thankyou, what an awesome and helpful video!! Sewing is so much more that the task itself!! You are so right, preparation is everything. I will definitely spend more time to get myself organized so I can enjoy my precious sewing time instead of the frustration I find myself in when I cant even find my needles let alone thread them, lol!!!
Hi Emma, I enjoy your you tube videos and love your lovely choices of fabric. I would like to receive the planner sheets that you showed in the tips for EPP. Is the needle case for threaded needles available for purchase from Clover? I enjoy preparing my work while listening to a tv show in the evening. I have a small table that I place in front of me and glue, fold, and place in a container; I cut in the early morning and stack for the evening prep time.
Another wonderful video. !! I certainly found the tips useful. As a reasonably new EPP person, all the tips were really great. I would like to know more about being more thrifty with my EPP.😊
All great tips that I absolutely need to incorporate, especially the idea to complete rows to keep myself motivated. And, sure, I'd like to see cost saving tips.
Great video and suggestions. I need to get one of those needle threaders. About the glue though I have the opposite problem during the winter months the glue is to cold so it is very stiff. Next winter I need to keep it near a heat source but of course not to close. Thank you for all your information. Also thank you to those in the comments for information as well.
I use a needle threader and got tired of the little wire breaking so I now I put a drop of super glue at the point where the wire is connected, they last a lot longer. I also glue a tiny magnet on the back and it doubles as a needle holder.
Hola Emma 😎 Muchísimas gracias por todos tus magníficos consejos. Creo que he visto todos tus vídeos desde el principio y como siempre, es un placer escuchar y ver todo lo que compartes de tus experiencias con tus projectos de costura y bordado. Tu dedicación y entusiasmo por EPP es contagiosa y crea mucha motivación. ¡Sigue con tu buen trabajo y gracias otra vez! Cuídate 🌻
Hey Emma , nice to see you again . Thanks for the tips you suggested , so helpful will try them . Maybe they could help with my DWR , though some I have already doing . Take care , keep well .😊
❤️ the cutting strip and then using a rotary mat to cut shapes.. using a glue to baste is terrific idea .. love this method to get started thanks for these tips .. hugs 🤗
Another worthwhile video! Always happy to listen to EPP content that isn't just "the basics," or "for beginners." I think for those of us who stick with this method - we all do things a bit differently, and I am always curious about how the process for others has evolved. In my experience, EPP is THE best quilting method for a failing body (poor eyesight, and a bad back), limited space, and a tight budget. Keep creating! :)
Thank you Emma for the wisdom you shared here tonight. I was cutting out hex petals while watching. I like your idea of strips of fabric and doing a few at a time. I also think the compiled batch of basted, colorful shapes is a picture of wealth and treasure. As always, you bring peace and joy to our world of crafting. Much appreciation!
Thank you for another enjoyable session. Some of your tips I am using from your previous posts, but I've still found something new from this session. Take care Emma and happy sewing as always.
Thank you for this video, Emma! It seems I've already been doing several timesavers ~ template cutting sessions, basting sessions, locking stitch at corners, continuous stitching. 🤗 (Basting a good bunch ahead also helps when I packing for a camping trip) Mine are all from scraps, and I baste a small square around each of my templates, which I cut on the ScanNCut, cutting a good quart-sized ziplock baggie full, so they are all accurate, taking that concern away.😊 ScanNCut has many basic shapes built in, so it's easy to find some that are good for EPP. I cut a batch of 1", for my quilt, and 3/4" and 1/2" for smaller projects, (and to use up smaller scraps!) I also remove the templates as I go. They are cut from cardstock, so I can get good firm edges to stitch against. But, it's amazing how much more they weigh, if I don't remove them as I go.
Hi Emma ,I love your tips ,I watched a lady continuous stitch by running your needle down the inside of the hexi ,in the seam allowance and your needle pops out where you need it ,I hope that make sense ,changed my life ! 😮
What a great video today, loved the you show the needle threader, I am older and eyesight is not as good these days , so I will get me a needle threader , thanks so much
Hi Emma-the summer has me hopping. I’m on my way to visit my Grandchildren and I’ve brought a tin of hexagons with. I’ve been using needles that I’ve used for embroidery but I don’t really like them because they are not fine. What size milliners needle do you use? I love the idea of threading several needles at a time. I do use the clover threader and it is a time saver. Because I have mono vision contacts buying readers do not work. So, I asked my (Female) Eye Dr, who has done crafts before, suggested Craft Glasses. What a difference. Thanks for your TH-cams.
Thank you so much for all those great tips, especially the needle threader tips. I will certainly take them on board, as a newby to this great craft! 👍🏼
Some really great time saving tips here. Some of these I do. But quite a few I think I will start doing. Thank you for sharing your tips that you do. I've only just found your site here. And thinking while I baste my hexagons ready to sew together will watch a few more of your tutorials. Keep smiling and happy sewing
I have a needle threader similar to you showed us. Mine is a tulip from sew and quilt, I seen to not be able to get it to work as it should. Sure I must be doing something wrong. It does does look like the one you showed us. Thank you for your tips most helpful. I agree struggling with good light is so difficult, even in daylight they can help. And the best thing is it doesn’t bother say one else that may be sitting nearby, I like your book idea, I still envy how good you are at doing your EPP work. Great tip about the glue, you do use more when the glue gets warmer. Thank you again for today really found the tips helpful.. yes I am currently suffering from putting blocks together a huge nightmare, it has caused me to have my work lopsided. O fun balances up, I will know for the future.
I hope you can get it to work Karen, maybe google the exact one you have and see if there is a tutorial somewhere? I hope you get past the blocks, it can be an uphill struggle putting them together. Thanks for watching x
@@emmajonesvintagesewingbox it’s maybe just me being thick Emma. I was told they are good by sew and quilt so have. O reason to think it shouldn’t be. I think I am just being thick about something I am doing. , will have a good luck and read the instructions properly again , I think I may have rushed them a bit, being impatient. Hehe. Then gave up. Hehr
Fantastic ideas Emma. Many can be used in other crafts as well. I have a mountain of granny squares I made during lockdown and really love them, however if I had only sewed them together a row at a time, they would not still be sitting in a bag!
Awesome video!🥰 I didn’t sew my Lucy Boston blocks together as I went because I did them all from scraps and wanted to really think about how I wanted to arrange them and the connecting method but I see your point Thanks so much
Find out more about the Serious Lights Range here try.seriousreaders.com/pages/sr307/ and use the code SR307 for £100 off the High Definition model
The habit I’d like to share is as I get older my hands are giving me problems and get painful & sore. I find doing a few EPP pieces, the cutting, glue basting and sewing like a few together at a time is easier on my hands vs Repetition only one thing over and over is harder on me.
Yes that’s true for me too
That is a really good point Linda, I can see how that would help to give your hands a rest. Thank you for sharing
Thank you for sharing the tips! Would love to hear tips on how to save money!!!!
You do such beautiful work I am just starting to do epp ,lot of good tips 😊 thank you
Your embroidery is just beautiful. I was wondering if you could show us a little bit of embroidery sometime. Tnx
Pressing with steam before removing templates really makes sure the seams stay flat and in shape no matter how long it takes to finish your project!
great tip!
Good idea! I was even thinking to spray starch the basted and stitched-together EPP shapes before removing the papers, to keep a bit of structure even after the paper templates have been removed.
Have you done a video on putting blocks together please. I am making a large hexi quilt and am a little daunted about hand sewing blocks together. Many thanks for your informative videos as they are very much enjoyed and appreciated. Take care and happy quilting xx
Glad you liked the video, thanks for watching. I will make a video about putting blocks together in the future, thank you 😊
It's really exactly the same as piecing, just fold the blocks then smooth them out afterwards. Honestly it's so easy.
On cutting and basting, for hexagons (1” and larger for sure, maybe even smaller) I really, REALLY like to using squares. A 2.5” square is perfect for a 1” hexie and a 5” square is perfect for a 2” hexie. You have a little extra on the back, but you never have to worry about your seam allowance being too small and cutting out your fabric is quick, efficient, and stress-free with little waste (or hey, precut bundles if you roll that way 😉).
yes, I cut squares too :) It is so much easier than fussy cutting ;) T x
Same here!
Same here!! Cutting the fabric around the template is what almost discouraged me from EPP and hexies. Then, watching someone's video, I thought, well why not!!
I still pick up many other good tips from those that do like to cut their hexies like that, though. Since I only do big stitch quilting anymore, anyway, I don't have any trouble quilting with the extra fabric in the hexies. I tried it, with a finished shape and scrap batting & backing because it did make me wonder...I love being able to use leftover quilt squares that I just cut to size and put in my hexie basting box. Then I put the basted hexies in a divided box I found in the container area of our craft store. It has a shallow tray for scissors , needles, and my half empty bobbins I'm trying to empty. Good latches and a handle, on it, too.
Another thing I often forget to do but is really helpful is punching holes in my shapes as this helps when removing them ☺️
great tip Claire!
For sure!! That little hole makes an amazing difference! I keep a small crochet hook in my hexie box to remove them.
Great video, Emma. Yes, I'd like to see a video on how to make EPP more cost efficient. Thanks for asking. I couldn't tell by watching your video if you did this or not, but when I continuous sew from one seam to another, I slip my needle underneath the fabric from where I tied my knot to where I begin the new seam. This way the thread is hidden underneath the seam allowance. I love EPP!! It so relaxing.
I don't do that, I lay it on top, but that is a great tip Jackie, thank you! So glad you love EPP, thanks for watching
I love the idea of taking the needle underneath the fabric, thank you Jackie for sharing.
Another great video Emma. Living in Australia, the glue tip is definitely going to make a difference! A cost effective video would be great Emma 😊
that is great to hear, thank you Carol
Thank you Emma, love the needle threaded tips. I will be getting one of the table threaders and making a hexi needle holder. One tip I was recently given was to use a "purple thing" to remove papers I had glued in. It really saved my fingers and stopped fabrics fraying.
I have never heard of a purple thing, what is it? I am intrigued!
@@emmajonesvintagesewingbox sorry I spelt it incorrectly. It's "That Purple Thang" by Lyn Graves. It's purple and plastic. I had seen it used to push out corners, it has a 1/4 inch tip on one end and on the other a curved tip which is, perfect for sliding under the fabric and releasing it.
I just found one of those threaders in my stash, looking for something else...and I've hardly used it! Now, I will!! And I'll make a needle holder for them. ☺️
Oh, that 'Purple Thang'? Looks handy! I have a couple crochet hooks that have found other uses since I donated my yarn to the senior center.😏
Hi Yvonne, what purple thing you referring to, to take papers out, please...and thank you..I love epp too...
Thanks so much Emma for all your tips! They were so well thought out, I shall be sure to get into better habits 😉. Happy sewing 🧵🪡
Thank you Sally
I have a hybrid baste lol, I have 5" squares of fabric , I cut these in to 4 then using a glue stick I put one dab of glue in the centre of the shape card , and Bob that on to the centre of the fabric , then I trim them when I have a pile of 100. Then I sit and stitch baste ,I do all of this whilst listening to you tube and peddling on my under dest step machine so I really multi task lol .
Hmmm, your idea of using your gluestick sounds intriguing. I use a Wonder clip to hold my fabric to the template while I baste around. But, gluestick may give me even more of a head start. I also use those sweet little clips to hold my hexies together while I stitch them together. It's amazing how that has reduced the achy-ness in my hands!! I tend to stitch about 1/16th of an inch together (a millimeter apart?), so my hand is rather stiff, soon. Or they were, till I started using the clips!
So many great tips that can apply to other hobbies/crafts as well. Thank you Emma for making this video and sharing your knowledge with us. Would you be able to make a short video about keeping notes? I have to admit that I am pretty bad at this, and have had to restart projects because I never write any notes.
yes, I will make some short form videos about this sort of thing, thank you so much for watching Kajal
Very helpful, thank you Emma! Since I’m a fairly new EPP stitcher, I appreciate learning the right helpful habits right from the start, rather than going my own way likely learning some unproductive habits, and then having to ‘unlearn’ them later. I agree with your suggestion to remove the papers as you go, especially as I plan to re-use the papers (because those shapes can get quite expensive!). ❤Your video is much appreciated.
You are so welcome!
Hello! I just stumbled on this video while watching some other quilting channels, and have to say thank you for all these tips! I have an EPP hexagon project I’ve been working on since 2017 (I know… 🙈😂), and this is going to help me loads with getting more efficient when I do work on it! The method you use for cutting was SO HELPFUL! I’d been on the fence about getting a rotating mat, but I think I’m going to treat myself to one to help with cutting small projects! ❤
Glad it was helpful! You’ll love the rotating mat 🌸
I'm just starting EPP. I am retired and traveling more. Need a small hobby to do and this looks perfect. Your good habits will help me to get started. Love your show Emma
thank you Cammie!
Great suggestions. I know when my children were small, I could only stitch for a few minutes at a time. But to my surprise, i was getting more projects done than I expected to do that year. So even small amounts add up to getting things done. You are right in all your recommendations.
It's amazing how it all adds up isn't it! Thanks for watching Anne
Just getting started with EPP. Thanks for all your tips.
I have been working on a large hexi flower quilt for quite a while. I have found that breaking things up into smaller chunks has made it easier, and it feels like I am making more progress. For instance; I am using layer cakes for my fabrics, so I cut one whole layer cake at a time, then moved on to basting enough hexis to make the flowers for one row and sewed the flowers for that row. Once those flowers were done, I placed them into a baggie and did the next row of hexies and flowers. I am saving the rows to do all at once, but having them already planned and packaged together will save me time at the end, and it helps to be able to see the empty baggies and emptying basket indicating my progress.
You look very nice in your glasses ❤
Oh thank you!
Really nice and informative video - short and succinct. Thanks. I learned many years ago that when I finish for the day, if I prepare even one needle for my project I am more likely to pick up my project and stitch on a regular basis because I don't have to spend time threading a needle. So thanks for reinforcing that lesson.
so glad you liked it Linda
Using a thread conditioner like Thread Magic helps avoid tangles in my thread, trying to untangle my thread used to slow me down so much because I like to use long lengths of thread so I can sew a lot without replenishing
I keep beeswax in my hexie box. But, I guess that does the same thing? I haven't seen Thread magic, lately...
Thank-you for the tips, I have some of those fancy threaders, and lots of glasses of differing strengths from years past.
Years ago I was shown a simple pre-threading trick. Using a reel of thread and a packet of needles, and a traditional wire threader. Thread the whole packet of needles onto the threader, pull the thread through all of them at once. Hold needles flat against the reel with one thumb. Pull out enough thread for the first needle in line and a bit to wrap all of the other needles against the reel. Take off the first needle with it's thread, cut and wrap the rest close to the thead on your reel. As you empty your needles put them back in the needle packet, can your threader stay in the packet? When all are emptied, re-thread the lot again. This is a much smaller use of space, handy for on the go sewing. If you have to put your work aside, for a time, unthread the needles to prevent contamination of thread and needles, or use them in another current project. You could also use this method with your 10 needle holder.
Did you know about those modern plastic reels, having a space inside, you pull off an end cap and have a needle space inside, make sure the cap is back on, securely. Check it out? That one is handy for travelling.
Please be careful, your close to dylight light, may as fluorescent light does have UVA and UVB in them which is the bit that burns you and causes skin cancer.
Thank you for the tips Kathleen, very useful.
The light I am using is not the type of light you have described. It is not a fluorescent tube and doesn’t not emit uv or anything like that. It cannot cause cancer. I would not use or endorse something that wasn’t safe. It’s a special LED bulb that replicates daylight. I think you are thinking of the sunbed type lights and it isn’t anything like that at all. I hope that clears it up. Thanks for watching
TFS those awesome tips abt threading the needles as one; and also the hollow tube inside the thread! 🌷
Thank you so much Emma you are a true inspiration and are giving me my sewing mojo back. Please can I ask if you can share some more of your embroidery hexagons and sashiko please
Yes I will try. Thanks so much Sylvie
Thank you, Emma for all the tips. I have always waited to sew my Hexie flowers together, wanting to lay them all out together! I have several ready to go together and will start. I also have the round needle holder....and have never used it! So I am going to go dig it out and get my needles threaded. Thank you again. Take care
You will find it so useful Sarah. Have fun stitching the flowers together, you will enjoy seeing it grow I am sure, take care
Wonderful tips in this video. I am making large hexagons in floral fabrics and wonder how to quilt the center spaces. Do I quilt a six-point flower shape or can I use Kantha stitches? Do I do the quilting on individual blocks or wait until the blocks are pieced together? This is my first quilt so I’m learning as I go. Thanks for your wonderful channel which I really enjoy viewing and listening to.❤
You can quilt in any shape or design you would like, and it's up to you whether you do the centres or not, just do whatever you like the look of. But you will need to do it when the blocks are all joined together and layered up with wadding and backing fabric. Hope that helps
Another great video! Emma, could you do a video on how to add a border to an EPP quilt? I would like to appliqué a border to my EPP quilt but with corners I need help. I am making Sharon Burgess’ Prudence quilt. Thanks for all these great tips.❤
thanks Lisa. It would be a bit tricky for me to make that video because I would need a quilt that needs a border so I could show it. Perhaps Sharon has some videos or blog posts to help?
Thanks for all your great tips. You do absolutely beautiful work.
Thank you so much!
Very good ideas for good habits! I'll try to keep them in mind as I begin this EPP journey!
I'd love to hear your budget ideas! Also, I don't know if you've said what kind of THREAD you use to do the piecing...? And do you have your thread double or single strand? Thanks! 😊
I'm loving your channel!! 🎉
Thank you! I use a single strand and I use wonderfil invisafil mostly, its a polyester. I also like Wonderfil Efina and Superior Threads So Fine!
@Emma Jones Vintage Sewing Box Thanks for getting back with me! 😊
Wonderful video that was so helpful and interesting
Glad it was helpful!
Excellent tips
Great tips!! Thank you ❤❤
Glad it was helpful!
Dear Emma: Once again, I totally enjoyed listening to you & agreeing with you on many of your tips. Many I already do, and I’m not a quilt maker! Your other tips are so encouraging that I am slowly considering the idea of trying to make a small hexagon item, in order to try hand sewing in small batches!! And yes, excellent lighting & having clear vision is crucial to anything we do with our eyes, even just reading & watching TH-cam videos!!
As always, it was a wonderful experience watching you this morning(it’s 7am in CA) as I sipped my tea in a very quiet house!!
Have a lovely week!! Thank you!!
oh thank you so much Sonia, I am glad you enjoyed the video, have a great week too
Such a great video - thank you so much for helping us to sew efficiently. Lots of great ideas, and you explain everything beautifully! I'm going to buy one of the desk needle threaders and hopefully one of the lamps! Xxx
I am so happy you liked the video Jo, thank you so much. You will love the threader and lamp, they are so good x
Yayyy, Cath Kidston glasses
Haha yes, I had to get the CK ones 😊🌸
Would love your thoughts about saving money in future. Thanks
Such great suggestions! Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom based on experience. I love that! I remember doing a project awhile back for my parents' anniversary. I was working full time and had a toddler at home with special needs. I didn't think I would make it but I broke it down, as you said, and left things where I could pick right back up. I would try to carve out at least 15 minutes a day. Long story longer, I finished the project! So, I know, even the smallest bits of time can move us forward. Thank you, Emma!
it's amazing how every little bit no matter how small helps, thanks for sharing Priscilla
I often do some preparation or hand sewing when I talk to my sister on the phone. Given that we speak once a week for about 2 hours at a time ( we are retired of course, lol), I get quite a lot done. I sometimes leave those little jobs to do just for that period of time and it’s very satisfying. Great tips Emma and given that I am another Aussie, the glue tip is especially good - I don’t know why I didn’t think of it! Cheers 😀🇳🇿
thanks so much Carolyn, I am glad you liked the video
Threading several needles at the beginning of a hand sewing project is brilliant! I have always filled several bobbins at a time for a sewing machine project, but never thought about the needles!!! Duh!
Thank you!❤
Try using a thin wadding instead of paper , to back your hexies it gives a bouncy hexie shape and saves any further wadding unless you want it, I sue one that has glue one side So it stays in place nicely, Hexiform for a very large quilt worked out to expensive to use,, but I feel the effect was as good,
Nice idea! I might try this on my next project (if I ever finish my current one 😂)
Hi Emma, I’m having problems with hand sewing hexagons together I’m left handed !please can you do a video on how to get these stitches neatly and not showing on right side, you make such beautiful pieces, I’ve just found you ,thank you so much.😊
I will do, but using the whip stitch, the stitches will always show on the other side as that’s the nature of the stitch. I would suggest you change your thread to something finer and try to colour match. The other thing you could do is look up the flat back stitch. It’s not a stitch I do as I find it slow, but it’s a method that doesn’t show the stitches on the front so you might like it. Aside from that, I would say embrace your stitches because they show your piece is handmade and show how much work went into it
Great tips Emma. I must get better at taking notes on my projects, especially crochet as I can’t always remember the name of the pattern or what size crochet hook and this can obviously mean a lot of work goes wrong!! Or has to stop 🥺
we all do it, I am really trying to be better with notes now. Thanks for watching Claire
A girl after me own heart... except for the threader, I have already practiced those habits for years... lots of love..❤
Thank you Lucia x
I love that needle threader what an life saver when you can't see well
You have a great story telling voice. Enjoyed your tips.
Glad you enjoyed it Linda 😊
You always have such sensible suggestions. Thank you.
Thank you Marilyn 😊
Thank ypu...just beginning and your tips were very helpful! 👍
Glad it was helpful!
Thankyou, what an awesome and helpful video!! Sewing is so much more that the task itself!! You are so right, preparation is everything. I will definitely spend more time to get myself organized so I can enjoy my precious sewing time instead of the frustration I find myself in when I cant even find my needles let alone thread them, lol!!!
so glad you liked the video and found it useful April, thanks for watching
Hi Emma, I enjoy your you tube videos and love your lovely choices of fabric. I would like to receive the planner sheets that you showed in the tips for EPP. Is the needle case for threaded needles available for purchase from Clover? I enjoy preparing my work while listening to a tv show in the evening. I have a small table that I place in front of me and glue, fold, and place in a container; I cut in the early morning and stack for the evening prep time.
@@eileenhoffman795what a great morning and evening routine! Thanks for sharing, Eileen. ❤
Another wonderful video. !! I certainly found the tips useful. As a reasonably new EPP person, all the tips were really great. I would like to know more about being more thrifty with my EPP.😊
I am so happy to hear that, thank you Nicky
These tips for making good habits as we work on our project was really helpful to me . I am going to try my best to implement these . Thank you .
All great tips that I absolutely need to incorporate, especially the idea to complete rows to keep myself motivated. And, sure, I'd like to see cost saving tips.
Great video and suggestions. I need to get one of those needle threaders. About the glue though I have the opposite problem during the winter months the glue is to cold so it is very stiff. Next winter I need to keep it near a heat source but of course not to close. Thank you for all your information. Also thank you to those in the comments for information as well.
thank you so much Denise
I really like the idea of prethreading a bunch of needles.
I use a needle threader and got tired of the little wire breaking so I now I put a drop of super glue at the point where the wire is connected, they last a lot longer. I also glue a tiny magnet on the back and it doubles as a needle holder.
great tip! thank you!
Your work is so beautiful, Emma. And those glasses really suit you! x
Thank you so much 😊
Hola Emma 😎 Muchísimas gracias por todos tus magníficos consejos. Creo que he visto todos tus vídeos desde el principio y como siempre, es un placer escuchar y ver todo lo que compartes de tus experiencias con tus projectos de costura y bordado. Tu dedicación y entusiasmo por EPP es contagiosa y crea mucha motivación. ¡Sigue con tu buen trabajo y gracias otra vez! Cuídate 🌻
Muchas gracias, es muy amable de tu parte decirlo. Realmente aprecio que veas todos mis videos, eso significa mucho para mí.
Hey Emma , nice to see you again . Thanks for the tips you suggested , so helpful will try them . Maybe they could help with my DWR , though some I have already doing . Take care , keep well .😊
so glad it was useful Susan, thank you, take care x
Thank you for your helpful tips.
thank you for watching
Very helpful. Thank you Emma 🙏❤️
Glad it was helpful!
❤️ the cutting strip and then using a rotary mat to cut shapes.. using a glue to baste is terrific idea .. love this method to get started thanks for these tips .. hugs 🤗
Another worthwhile video! Always happy to listen to EPP content that isn't just "the basics," or "for beginners." I think for those of us who stick with this method - we all do things a bit differently, and I am always curious about how the process for others has evolved.
In my experience, EPP is THE best quilting method for a failing body (poor eyesight, and a bad back), limited space, and a tight budget.
Keep creating! :)
Thank you Emma for the wisdom you shared here tonight. I was cutting out hex petals while watching. I like your idea of strips of fabric and doing a few at a time. I also think the compiled batch of basted, colorful shapes is a picture of wealth and treasure. As always, you bring peace and joy to our world of crafting. Much appreciation!
thank you ever so much Mel, so glad you liked the video, enjoy your stitching!
Thank you for putting this video together, I found it very informative.
Any tips on saving money on a craft is, in my opinion, always a good thing!
I love doing EPP. Thanks for the tips!
Oh, I live in Queensland Australia, and love epp
Great video very informative, save money in epp who doesn't want that :)
Thank you for another enjoyable session. Some of your tips I am using from your previous posts, but I've still found something new from this session. Take care Emma and happy sewing as always.
Thank you so much Roz
Thank you for this video, Emma! It seems I've already been doing several timesavers ~ template cutting sessions, basting sessions, locking stitch at corners, continuous stitching. 🤗 (Basting a good bunch ahead also helps when I packing for a camping trip)
Mine are all from scraps, and I baste a small square around each of my templates, which I cut on the ScanNCut, cutting a good quart-sized ziplock baggie full, so they are all accurate, taking that concern away.😊 ScanNCut has many basic shapes built in, so it's easy to find some that are good for EPP. I cut a batch of 1", for my quilt, and 3/4" and 1/2" for smaller projects, (and to use up smaller scraps!)
I also remove the templates as I go. They are cut from cardstock, so I can get good firm edges to stitch against. But, it's amazing how much more they weigh, if I don't remove them as I go.
LOVE my Serious Reader light!!! Thank you, Emma 🙂
I’m so so glad!🌸
Thank you so much Emma .All you do to help us is so generous and kind .Really Appreciate You
You are so welcome! Thank you so much 🌸
Wow first time I ever heard of putting the glue in the fridge. I’ll definitely try that thanks ☺️ ❤
Great pointers! I will try them! I do take papers out as I go as well! Thanks, Emma.
I'm a new subscriber. I have never done EPP before, but want to start after watching several of your videos.
Thank you for all the wonderful tips.
Thank you for watching and subscribing Linda, I hope you love EPP when you give it a try
Thanks!
oh thank you so much! That's so kind of you
Thank you Emma.... I always learn wonderful things on your tutorials. Excellent style of teaching. 👏 Kudos
Thank you Rosemary 🌸
Emma great episode. Straight away threaded up 8 needles. Thank you x
so glad you liked it Zena!
I have only just discovered your blog and I love it....
Thank you! Im so glad you like it 🌸
Hi Emma ,I love your tips ,I watched a lady continuous stitch by running your needle down the inside of the hexi ,in the seam allowance and your needle pops out where you need it ,I hope that make sense ,changed my life ! 😮
Great idea! Thank you 😊
The clover needle threader is one of the best, I use it all the time. Hope you and yours are well. Regards from New Zealand
Thank you Mary, it’s a great gadget isn’t it. Take care
What a great video today, loved the you show the needle threader, I am older and eyesight is not as good these days , so I will get me a needle threader , thanks so much
so glad it was helpful Mary
Thanks for your videos! I am just beginning to do EPP. Would love a video about money saving tips.
Thank you so much for all the tips. As a newbie to this I need all the tips I can get lol
so glad it was useful Tania
Thanks for the wonderful tips and I like the idea of making many Epps at a time 😀🇨🇦
Glad you like them! I think having a good basting session really helps to move the project forward
Love the habits you passed on.❤
Great and helpful tips for this beginner. Thanks! 😊
Hi Emma-the summer has me hopping. I’m on my way to visit my Grandchildren and I’ve brought a tin of hexagons with. I’ve been using needles that I’ve used for embroidery but I don’t really like them because they are not fine.
What size milliners needle do you use? I love the idea of threading several needles at a time. I do use the clover threader and it is a time saver.
Because I have mono vision contacts buying readers do not work. So, I asked my (Female) Eye Dr, who has done crafts before, suggested Craft Glasses. What a difference.
Thanks for your TH-cams.
I use size 9 or 10 milliners needles. Glad you found some glasses that’s help. Happy stitching
Thank you so much for all those great tips, especially the needle threader tips. I will certainly take them on board, as a newby to this great craft! 👍🏼
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching
I have that needle threader and I love it
Some really great time saving tips here. Some of these I do. But quite a few I think I will start doing. Thank you for sharing your tips that you do. I've only just found your site here. And thinking while I baste my hexagons ready to sew together will watch a few more of your tutorials. Keep smiling and happy sewing
Would love a budget epp video ❤
Coming up tonight!
Thanks Emma, great tips, yes I would love to have ideas for economic quilting..
Great tips! Love your short tube.
Love your videos and your work, Emma! Thank you from San Diego, CA
thank you so much Darlene
I have a needle threader similar to you showed us. Mine is a tulip from sew and quilt, I seen to not be able to get it to work as it should. Sure I must be doing something wrong. It does does look like the one you showed us. Thank you for your tips most helpful. I agree struggling with good light is so difficult, even in daylight they can help. And the best thing is it doesn’t bother say one else that may be sitting nearby, I like your book idea, I still envy how good you are at doing your EPP work. Great tip about the glue, you do use more when the glue gets warmer. Thank you again for today really found the tips helpful.. yes I am currently suffering from putting blocks together a huge nightmare, it has caused me to have my work lopsided. O fun balances up, I will know for the future.
I hope you can get it to work Karen, maybe google the exact one you have and see if there is a tutorial somewhere? I hope you get past the blocks, it can be an uphill struggle putting them together. Thanks for watching x
@@emmajonesvintagesewingbox it’s maybe just me being thick Emma. I was told they are good by sew and quilt so have. O reason to think it shouldn’t be. I think I am just being thick about something I am doing. , will have a good luck and read the instructions properly again , I think I may have rushed them a bit, being impatient. Hehe. Then gave up. Hehr
emma, I love your videos. I have always threaded ❤several needles at a time...even in my cross stitch. The lighting and good posture are good too
Good tips thank you I would be interested in a budget video
thank you Melanie
Thank you! I’m new to EPP 🎉
Thank you so much Caroline, I hope you love EPP when you give it a go
Thank you, tips are a great help I do need to a few on board. I chop and change what I do so notes are a must. Have a lovely week 🌸
Thank you so much Alison Mary, I hope you have a great week too x
I'm new to your channel and so happy I found you. Love your clear closeups and loads of inspiration! 🤍
Thanks so much! 😊 I appreciate you following along
Fantastic ideas Emma. Many can be used in other crafts as well. I have a mountain of granny squares I made during lockdown and really love them, however if I had only sewed them together a row at a time, they would not still be sitting in a bag!
thank you for watching Wendy, I am sure you'll get to them one day x
Awesome video!🥰 I didn’t sew my Lucy Boston blocks together as I went because I did them all from scraps and wanted to really think about how I wanted to arrange them and the connecting method but I see your point Thanks so much
that's a really good point, I think you'd definitely have to wait if making it scrappy. Thanks for watching