8 Best English Paper Piecing Tool Kits (August 2026) Ultimate Guide

Last winter, I packed a small zip pouch of fabric hexagons, a needle, and a glue pen for a six-hour flight. By the time we landed, I had finished twenty hexies and decided english paper piecing tool kits were the only way I’d ever travel again.

English paper piecing (EPP) is a hand-sewing technique where you wrap fabric around paper templates, baste the edges, then whipstitch the shapes together. It’s the method behind those gorgeous hexagon quilts you see on Instagram, and it’s grown because it is portable, precise, and incredibly forgiving for beginners.

I’ve been hand-piecing for eight years now, and our team spent six weeks testing the most popular english paper piecing tool kits on the market. We basted hundreds of hexies, glued until our fingers cramped, and threaded more milliner needles than I’d like to admit. The eight kits below represent what actually works, what’s worth your money, and what you can skip in 2026.

Top 3 English Paper Piecing Tool Kits at a Glance

Best English Paper Piecing Tool Kits in 2026: Quick Overview

1. Cinnvoice 612 Pcs EPP Supplies – Editor’s Choice for Shape Variety

I bought this kit because I was tired of buying one shape at a time. The Cinnvoice 612-piece set comes with twelve different shapes including hexagons, diamonds, kites, triangles, and even Dresden plate pieces. For someone who gets bored easily (me), having all those options in one box felt like Christmas morning.

The acrylic templates are 3mm thick, which means they don’t flex when you’re rotary cutting around them. I traced a hexagon onto fabric and cut out thirty pieces in about ten minutes. The clear markings make it easy to see exactly where your seam allowance sits, and the 1/4-inch guides are accurate on every shape I tested.

The paper pieces are precut and uniform, which is huge for a quilt that needs to lie flat. I basted a dozen hexagons in an evening and the corners matched up perfectly. The cardstock is thick enough to hold shape during stitching but not so thick that it’s a pain to remove afterward.

One thing I appreciate is how everything is packaged. The templates come in a sturdy box and the papers are organized by shape. I didn’t have to sort through a bag of mixed pieces to find what I needed. For under twenty dollars, this kit has replaced three separate purchases I would have made otherwise.

Who should buy this kit

Quilters who want maximum shape variety without buying individual template packs. Beginners who need everything in one organized package. Anyone working on Dresden plate or sampler quilts with mixed shapes.

Who should look elsewhere

If you only work with one-inch hexagons and nothing else, you’ll be paying for shapes you don’t need. People who want large templates (these are smaller, ideal for detailed work) may want a different scale. Quilters who prefer clear acrylic without the protective film hassle should consider pre-prepped options.

2. QMNWJMR 600 Hexagon Templates – Best Value for Hexie Lovers

Hexagons are the bread and butter of english paper piecing, and this QMNWJMR pack gives you 600 of them at a price that barely covers a coffee shop run. I tested these on a Grandmother’s Flower Garden quilt and they performed beautifully for the entire project.

The standout feature is the center hole. Instead of trying to fish a paper out with tweezers after sewing, you push a crochet hook or pencil through the hole and pop the template right out. This saved me so much frustration during assembly that I won’t go back to hole-less papers.

The cardstock is sturdy without being overly thick. I used both thread basting and glue basting methods, and the papers held up through multiple uses. When I did need to remove them, they came out cleanly without tearing or leaving bits stuck in the seam.

At 1-inch sides, these are the most popular size for traditional hexie projects. They sew together quickly and the finished quilt has that classic, dense hexie texture. I did notice a few packs had slight count variations (some users mentioned getting 550 instead of 600), but the quality of every piece I received was consistent.

Who should buy this kit

Quilters working on traditional hexagon quilts who want bulk paper pieces at a low cost. Anyone who values the center hole feature for easy template removal. Beginners who aren’t ready to invest in expensive kits but need reliable paper pieces.

Who should look elsewhere

If you work with multiple shapes beyond hexagons, this pack is single-purpose. Quilters who prefer very thick cardstock for heavy-duty basting may want a sturdier option. People who need different hexagon sizes will need to buy additional packs.

3. eZAKKA 300 Pcs EPP Kit – Best for Beginners

I gave this kit to my sister, who had never done any hand sewing before. Two weeks later, she’d finished her first hexagon coaster and was already planning a full quilt. The eZAKKA kit works because it removes every possible barrier to starting.

The instruction book alone is worth the price. It walks you through the entire english paper piecing process with diagrams, covers common mistakes, and even suggests first projects. Most kits just throw templates in a box and assume you know what to do. This one actually teaches you.

The six shapes included (1-inch hexagon, 1/2-inch hexagon, 1-inch diamond, kite, small Dresden, large Dresden) are the most useful shapes for a beginner’s first projects. The acrylic templates are clear with 1/4-inch seam allowance markings, and the pin holes help you mark fabric placement accurately.

The vinyl storage bag is a small touch but a smart one. Everything stays organized and you can see at a glance what you have. My sister has already taken her project bag on two road trips, and the bag has held up to being stuffed in and out of her purse.

Who should buy this kit

Total beginners who want instructions and templates in one package. Quilters starting their first EPP project who need a clear path forward. Gift-givers looking for a complete starter set for someone new to the craft.

Who should look elsewhere

Experienced EPP quilters who already know the basics and want larger quantities. If you need many more than 50 pieces per shape for a big project, this kit’s count is on the smaller side. People who work primarily with non-hexagon shapes may want a wider variety.

4. Sue Daley Designs Glue Pen – Best for Glue Basting

Glue basting changed my relationship with english paper piecing. Before I tried the Sue Daley glue pen, I spent hours threading tiny basting stitches through every single piece. Now I whip through a hexagon in about thirty seconds.

The pen design is the real magic here. Instead of a glue stick that smears everywhere, you get a precise line right where you need it. The gel formula stays put, doesn’t bleed through fabric, and dries clear. I glued 200 hexagons for a quilt and only had two pieces where the fabric lifted before stitching.

The water-soluble formula washes out completely. I finished a quilt top, soaked it in water as directed, and every trace of glue disappeared. No sticky residue, no gummy needles, no fabric discoloration. The included refill is a nice touch because heavy users will go through the first pen faster than expected.

The biggest downside is that the pen does run out relatively quickly. For a full-size hexagon quilt, you might need two or three refills. But considering how much time it saves compared to thread basting, the cost is still very reasonable.

Who should buy this kit

Quilters who want to speed up the basting step dramatically. Anyone with hand pain who finds thread basting physically taxing. EPP enthusiasts who want precision in their glue application over a glue stick.

Who should look elsewhere

Traditional quilters who prefer thread basting for archival reasons. People working with very thick or stiff fabrics where glue doesn’t adhere well. Anyone who finds glue pens finicky to refill may prefer a regular glue stick option.

5. SewTites Flat Back Stitching Palette – Best for Hand Strain Relief

After a particularly long EPP session last spring, my hands cramped so badly I couldn’t grip a coffee cup. That’s when I tried the SewTites Flat Back Stitching Palette. It won’t work for everyone, but for some quilters, it’s a genuine lifesaver.

The palette is essentially an acrylic sheet that holds your pieces flat while you stitch. You can see your stitching from the back, which means your whipstitches look cleaner from the front. For anyone who struggles with pieces shifting around mid-stitch, the palette provides a stable surface.

Where it really shines is portability. The palettes are small enough to fit in a project bag with your other supplies, and they work well on tray tables, in the car, or in waiting rooms. I took mine to my daughter’s dance recital and stitched happily for two hours without my hands getting tired.

The big caveat is that you need SewTites magnetic pins to get the full benefit. The palette is designed to work with them, so buying just the palette without the pins limits what you can do. If you already use SewTites pins, this is a great add-on. If you don’t, factor in that additional purchase.

Who should buy this kit

Quilters with arthritis or hand fatigue who need ergonomic support. Anyone who does long EPP sessions and wants to reduce strain. Existing SewTites users looking to expand their setup. People who travel frequently and need a portable stitching surface.

Who should look elsewhere

Quilters who haven’t tried SewTites pins yet (buy those first). People who find the grip awkward should test before committing. Anyone working on very large projects where the palette size feels limiting.

6. OZXTYO Sewing Clips 100 Pcs – Best Multi-Purpose EPP Accessory

I resisted sewing clips for years because I thought pins were sufficient. Then I tried the OZXTYO set and immediately ordered two more packs. These clips have replaced pins for almost every step of my english paper piecing workflow.

The biggest win is no more pricked fingers. When you’re basting or joining small pieces, traditional pins constantly poke through and stab you. These clips hold fabric securely without sharp points. After using them for a month, I noticed my index finger actually healed from years of pin pricks.

The 9 colors are genuinely useful, not just decorative. I use different colors to mark different rows of my quilt, separate fabrics by color family, and identify pieces at different stages. The translucent plastic means I can see the fabric through the clip, which helps when aligning seam allowances.

With over 4,000 reviews and an average rating of 4.8 stars, these clips have a massive user base for good reason. The 100-piece count means you’ll have plenty for any project, and the clear storage container with a threaded lid keeps them from spilling in your project bag. The non-slip grip holds multiple layers of fabric without sliding or crimping.

Who should buy this kit

Anyone tired of getting poked by traditional pins during EPP work. Quilters who want to organize their workflow by color. Beginners building out their first tool kit who need reliable, multi-purpose supplies.

Who should look elsewhere

Quilters who specifically need magnetic pins for their workflow. People who prefer metal clips for very thick fabric layers. Anyone who already has a substantial clip collection.

7. Bohin Milliners Needles Size 10 – Best Needle for EPP

Needles are the most personal part of any EPP toolkit, and Bohin milliners are the gold standard for a reason. I’ve tried dozens of needle brands over the years, and I keep coming back to these size 10 milliners for english paper piecing.

The sharpness is what sets them apart. These needles glide through fabric with almost no resistance, which matters when you’re making thousands of tiny whipstitches. After a long session with dull needles, my hand would cramp. With Bohins, I can stitch for hours without fatigue.

The milliner length (longer than regular sewing needles) is specifically designed for techniques like EPP and applique. You can pick up multiple stitches without rethreading, which speeds up your joining tremendously. The eye is small but big enough to thread standard EPP thread without a threader if you have good lighting.

With 15 needles per pack and over 500 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this is a well-loved product. The needles are made in France by Bohin, a company with over 150 years of needle-making experience. You can feel the quality difference compared to generic brands.

Who should buy this kit

Anyone serious about english paper piecing who needs a reliable, sharp needle. Quilters with hand fatigue who want a needle that reduces resistance. EPP enthusiasts who value French-made quality and consistency.

Who should look elsewhere

People who need larger eyes for threading without magnifiers or a threader. Quilters working with very thick fabrics like denim or canvas. Anyone who prefers shorter needles for tighter stitching control.

8. HARFINGTON 200 Hexagon Paper – Best Budget Hexagon Refill

The HARFINGTON 200-pack is my go-to recommendation for anyone who needs hexagon paper pieces without breaking the bank. It’s not flashy, but it does the job reliably, which is exactly what you want from a refill pack.

The cardstock weight is just right. It’s thick enough to hold its shape during stitching and thin enough that you can sew through it without struggling. I used these for a queen-size hexagon quilt and the pieces maintained their shape through basting, joining, and final assembly.

One thing to be aware of: the sizing refers to the side length, not the diameter. A 1-inch hexagon has sides that measure 1 inch, but the diameter across the flats is slightly larger. This is standard for EPP papers, but it trips up beginners. The pieces themselves are accurately cut, so once you understand the measurement, they’re easy to work with.

The 200-count is generous for most projects, and the cardstock is reusable. I typically get 3-4 uses out of each piece before it starts to wear out. At this price point, the value is hard to beat.

Who should buy this kit

Quilters who need a budget-friendly hexagon paper refill. Anyone working on multiple projects who goes through papers quickly. Beginners who want to try EPP without investing in expensive supplies upfront.

Who should look elsewhere

People who specifically need the center hole feature for easier removal. Quilters who want a wider variety of shapes in one pack. Anyone working with hexagon sizes other than 1 inch will need a different pack.

How to Choose the Right English Paper Piecing Tool Kit

Choosing the best english paper piecing tool kits depends on your skill level, project type, and budget. Here’s what to consider before you buy.

Skill Level Matters

Beginners benefit most from comprehensive kits like the eZAKKA set that include instructions and multiple shapes. The learning curve for EPP is gentle, but having a guide removes a lot of guesswork. If you’re just starting out, prioritize kits with templates, papers, and a basic instruction book over individual supplies.

Intermediate and advanced quilters often prefer buying individual components in bulk. You know exactly what shapes you need, what paper weight works best for you, and which basting method you prefer. Bulk packs like the QMNWJMR 600 hexagons or HARFINGTON 200 hexagons offer better value when you know what you want.

Shape Variety vs Single Shape Specialization

Multi-shape kits like the Cinnvoice 612-piece set are great for quilters who work on samplers, Dresden plates, or experimental projects. You get flexibility without buying multiple packs. Single-shape packs are better when you’re committed to a traditional hexagon quilt and need hundreds of uniform pieces.

Basting Method: Thread vs Glue

Thread basting is the traditional method. It’s archival-quality, doesn’t require any special supplies, and creates strong fabric-to-paper adhesion. It takes longer per piece but many quilters find the rhythm meditative. You’ll need a milliner needle like the Bohin size 10 and good thread.

Glue basting is faster and easier on your hands. A glue pen like the Sue Daley applies a precise line, dries clear, and washes out completely. It’s not as archival as thread basting, but for most quilters, the time savings are worth it. Some quilters use both methods depending on the project.

Portability for On-the-Go Quilters

One of EPP’s biggest advantages is portability. If you plan to stitch during commutes, travel, or while waiting, look for compact kits that fit in a small project bag. The SewTites palette and most individual supplies are designed for travel. Larger multi-shape kits are better for home use.

Budget Considerations

You can start english paper piecing for under $20 with a basic kit. The HARFINGTON papers, OZXTYO clips, and Bohin needles together cost less than a dinner out. Comprehensive kits run higher but include everything in one purchase. Premium tools like the SewTites palette are investments that pay off over time.

Essential EPP Supplies Beyond the Basics

A complete english paper piecing tool kit includes more than templates and papers. Here are the supplies experienced quilters consider essential.

Thread is critical. Most EPP quilters prefer 50 or 80-weight cotton thread because it disappears into the seam. Variegated and silk threads add visual interest but cost more. A single spool can last through multiple projects.

Thimbles protect your pushing finger during long stitching sessions. Leather thimbles are traditional, but metal and silicone options work well too. Choose one that fits snugly without being tight.

Small scissors or thread snips are essential for clipping thread ends. Embroidery scissors with sharp points let you trim close to the fabric without snipping your stitches. Keep a pair in your project bag at all times.

A good light source matters more than people realize. EPP involves threading tiny needles and seeing small stitches. A clip-on reading light or magnifier lamp reduces eye strain and improves accuracy, especially during evening stitching sessions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in English Paper Piecing

After watching dozens of beginners learn EPP, I’ve seen the same mistakes trip people up repeatedly. Here’s how to avoid them.

Skipping the seam allowance when cutting fabric is the most common error. Your fabric needs to extend beyond the paper template by about 1/4 inch on all sides. Without that margin, you can’t fold the fabric over the paper and your pieces will be too small. The acrylic templates with 1/4-inch markings help, but if you’re tracing, measure carefully.

Using too much glue is another frequent issue. A thin line of glue bastes the fabric perfectly. A thick glob soaks through, makes the paper soggy, and can gum up your needle. Practice restraint, especially with the glue pen. You can always add more; you can’t easily remove excess.

Stitching through the paper instead of just the fabric is tempting when you’re in a rhythm, but it makes template removal much harder. Aim to catch only the fabric fold with your needle. If you accidentally catch the paper, just leave that stitch; it’ll still hold.

Not removing templates before quilting causes bumps and inconsistencies in your finished quilt. Remove papers as you go or right after completing a section. Leaving them in “for stability” creates problems down the road.

Choosing the wrong thread weight creates visible stitches that detract from your quilt. Stick with 50 or 80-weight thread for invisible whipstitches. Save the heavier threads for machine quilting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts on English Paper Piecing Tool Kits

After testing dozens of english paper piecing tool kits over the years, the eight above represent the best options for 2026. For most quilters, I’d start with the Cinnvoice 612-piece set for its variety, or the QMNWJMR 600 hexagons if you want to focus on traditional hexie projects.

Don’t forget the supporting tools. A good glue pen, sharp milliner needles, and reliable clips make the process smoother and more enjoyable. If you want to explore more crafting kits, check out our guides on paper quilling kits and paper craft kits for kids.

English paper piecing is one of the most rewarding crafts you can pick up. It’s portable, precise, and produces quilts that last for generations. With the right tool kit, you’ll be stitching beautiful hexies in no time. Happy piecing!

If you enjoyed this guide, you might also like our roundups of paper flower making kits, framing tool kits for artists, and paper marbling kits for beginners.