Summer’s here, and that means patio lounging, iced coffee sipping, and—if you’re anything like us—crafting dangerously close to a family of squirrels who seem suspiciously interested in your fabric scraps. While the birds bathe and the squirrels plot, we’re hard at work on a little sashiko, or mending, and especially English Paper Piecing (EPP), the ultimate hand-sewing adventure.

If you’ve ever fantasized about creating gorgeous quilts, snuggly throws, charming baby blankets, mending patches, or pillows so cute they might just cause a nap emergency, EPP is your ticket.

No sewing experience? No problem! All you need are some vibrant fabric bits, pre-cut paper templates, and a whipstitch (it’s easier than convincing a squirrel to pay rent). Before long, you’ll have masterpiece patches ready for quilt blocks, home décor, or even jazzing up a plain t-shirt or boring jeans.

Warning: admiration from friends and random passersby may increase.

The real beauty of English Paper Piecing? It’s more portable than a picnic basket. You can take it anywhere, from the patio to the pool, or even the backseat of a road trip car—no stitching while driving, please. Fabric de-stashing is highly encouraged; your creative soul will thank you.

Colonial Needle Company stocks the goods to keep your EPP game strong. Roxanne glue sticks are essential for our outdoor sewing kits—Shannon swears by the John James Signature Collection Milliner needles; the subtle flexibility gives them the maneuverability to create those nearly invisible stitches.  Meanwhile, Jason is loyal to the Signature Collection Sharps in size #7 or #8 for applique, claiming they deliver smoother results than his signature iced latte. We suggest trying both—needle drama is half the fun.

So, step out your back door, settle into the shade with your beverage of choice (and your SPF), and let your creativity run wild. Who knows? You may end up with a quilt, a collection of squirrel fans, and a whole new appreciation for the joys of portable crafting this summer!