pippa

I am attempting a clamshell pattern but having some problems:

1) I have too much fabric at the corners so I can't get a sharp point.

2) I have nicked the inside curves, do I need to notch the outer curves as well to make them lie flat?

3) What sort of paper do you use?

Would be grateful for any advice.
Thanks
Pippa

neeng

Hi
I've never EPP'd anything with curves yet, so admire your bravery to try a clamshell! However from working with lots of curves when dressmaking, I'd say it will be very helpful to notch both the inner and outer curves.
On the inner - will allow the seam allowances to overlap each other for better fit, and conversely, on the outer will allow them to spread slightly.

I've only done hexagons so far, but for me regular printer paper is working just fine.

MTS

I use freezer paper (with a hole punched in the middle of whatever shape I'm using for easy removal later) and a bit of glue (repositionible -I don't think that's a word, but if you only use a tiny bit of Roxanne's or Elmer's or glue stick, that's fine too, even if you've ironed it).

I would think you have to handle the sharp point just like you to in needle turn applique, where you fold over one side completely, trim some excess fabric, stitch the point and then fold the other side.

Let me see if I can you a good picture of that particular technique.

And I'd nick whatever needed to be nicked to cleanly and smoothly fold the fabric over the paper. So, yes. ;-) The outer curve just might not need as many nicks as the inner curve.

eta:
Check out this video - FF to the :50 mark and watch what she does with the fabric - you'd do the same, except with thread or glue (depending on your choice of EPP method).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=spjJD78DJWk

sueisallaboutquilts

What a coincidence- today I got some EPP papers from Connecting Threads. I got triangles and diamonds though. I love doing hand work and thought it might be fun.
By the way Connecting Threads has them on sale right now.

pippa

Many thanks. The EPP wasn't going well so after watching the video I think I can do the same pattern with freezer paper and needle turned appliqué. I will let you know how it goes.
Pippa