Cassie Cartmell – Faodail Creation
Table of Contents
If you’ve ever struggled with cutting precise shapes for quilting, English paper piecing templates with the Cricut can completely transform your workflow. This method is not only efficient but also incredibly satisfying especially when you see perfectly cut hexagons ready for your next quilt project.
In this detailed tutorial, I’ll walk you step by step through how to create English paper piecing templates with the Cricut, from setting up your design in Cricut Design Space to cutting cardstock templates with precision. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced quilter, this guide will help you save time, improve accuracy, and enjoy the process even more.
One of the biggest advantages of using English paper piecing templates with the Cricut is the consistency you achieve with every single cut. When you’re working on larger quilting projects, even the smallest variation in template size can affect how your pieces fit together. By using your Cricut, you eliminate that issue entirely and ensure every hexagon or any shape you choose is identical. This level of precision makes sewing your pieces together smoother and far more enjoyable.
Another benefit is how quickly you can produce a large number of templates. Instead of spending hours cutting shapes by hand, English paper piecing templates with the Cricut allow you to create dozens in minutes. This is especially helpful if you’re planning a bigger quilt project that requires hundreds or even thousands of pieces. It also gives you the freedom to experiment with different sizes and designs without worrying about the extra time commitment.
What Are English Paper Piecing Templates with the Cricut?
English paper piecing templates with the Cricut are cardstock shapes typically hexagons cut using a Cricut Maker or similar machine. These templates are used to wrap fabric around, helping you create precise quilt blocks with clean, sharp edges.
Traditionally, these templates are purchased from quilting stores. However, making your own English paper piecing templates with the Cricut gives you complete control over size, quantity, and cost.
Why Use English Paper Piecing Templates with the Cricut?
Creating your own English paper piecing templates with the Cricut offers several major advantages:
1. Precision Cutting
Your Cricut machine ensures every shape is identical, which is essential for quilting accuracy.
2. Cost Savings
Pre-made templates can be expensive. Making English paper piecing templates with the Cricut reduces long-term costs.
3. Custom Sizing
You can easily adjust your template size whether you want 1.5-inch or 2-inch hexagons.
4. Time Efficiency
Cutting hundreds (or thousands) of shapes manually is time-consuming. The Cricut speeds up the process significantly.
Materials Needed for English Paper Piecing Templates with the Cricut
Before you begin, gather the following:
Essential Supplies
Below I have included my Affiliate Links, If you decide to purchase from one of these links I may receive small commision
- Cricut Maker (or similar cutting machine) – https://amzn.to/4d3kFxx
- Cricut Design Space software
- Cardstock (recommended over regular paper) – https://amzn.to/42P2p6o
- LightGrip cutting mat – https://amzn.to/4urVHiw
- Fine-point blade – https://amzn.to/4d3GxZH
- Cricut tool kit – https://amzn.to/48F1XLs
Using cardstock is highly recommended when making English paper piecing templates with the Cricut, as it provides durability and better structure for quilting.
How to Design English Paper Piecing Templates with the Cricut
Step 1: Open Cricut Design Space
Start by opening a new project in Cricut Design Space. This is where you’ll create your template layout.
Step 2: Select Your Shape
Go to the “Shapes” section and choose a hexagon.
- The default size is usually 2 inches.
- This is a common size for quilting projects.
If you’re creating English paper piecing templates with the Cricut, starting with a standard hexagon makes things easier.
Step 3: Adjust the Size
To resize your hexagon:
- Click on the shape
- Go to the width setting
- Enter your desired size (e.g., 1.5 inches)
- Keep proportions locked
For consistency, many quilters prefer 2-inch hexagons when making English paper piecing templates with the Cricut.
Step 4: Add a Center Circle (Optional)
Adding a small circle inside your hexagon can be helpful:
- Insert a circle shape
- Resize it smaller
- Center it inside the hexagon
Then:
- Select both shapes
- Click “Attach”
This ensures your English paper piecing templates with the Cricut cut as one combined design.
How to Duplicate Templates Efficiently
Once your design is ready, it’s time to fill your canvas:
Quick Copy Method
- Press Ctrl + C (copy)
- Press Ctrl + V (paste)
Repeat this process to duplicate your shapes across the page.
You can create multiple rows to maximize space. When making English paper piecing templates with the Cricut, fitting as many shapes as possible on one sheet helps save materials.
Preparing to Cut English Paper Piecing Templates with the Cricut
Step 1: Select Material Settings
When you click “Make It”:
- Choose mat size (typically 12” x 12”)
- Select Cardstock as your material
Step 2: Load Your Mat
- Place cardstock onto your LightGrip mat
- Smooth it down gently with your hands
Step 3: Insert the Mat into the Machine
- Feed the mat into your Cricut
- Ensure your machine is connected via Bluetooth
Step 4: Start Cutting
- Press the flashing button on your Cricut
- Let the machine do the work
Cutting English paper piecing templates with the Cricut is surprisingly fast and smooth.
Watching the Cricut in Action
There’s something incredibly relaxing about watching your machine cut. Many quilters find it almost therapeutic.
As your Cricut cuts English paper piecing templates with the Cricut, you’ll notice:
- Clean edges
- Consistent shapes
- Minimal effort on your part
Removing Your Templates from the Mat
Once cutting is complete:
Step 1: Remove the Mat
Take the mat out of the machine.
Step 2: Bend the Mat Slightly
Gently bend the mat to release the shapes.
Step 3: Use a Spatula Tool
For smaller pieces (like center circles), use a spatula to lift them.
Your English paper piecing templates with the Cricut should pop off easily without tearing.
Tips for Best Results with English Paper Piecing Templates with the Cricut
Use Cardstock Instead of Paper
Cardstock lasts longer and holds shape better. When creating English paper piecing templates with the Cricut, durability matters because these templates are handled repeatedly during the wrapping and stitching process. Thin paper can bend, tear, or lose its structure quickly, which affects the accuracy of your quilt pieces. Cardstock, on the other hand, provides a firm edge that helps keep your fabric folds crisp and consistent.
Keep Blade Sharp
A dull blade can cause tearing or uneven cuts. For clean and precise English paper piecing templates with the Cricut, always make sure your fine-point blade is in good condition. If you notice rough edges or incomplete cuts, it’s usually a sign your blade needs replacing. A sharp blade ensures smooth cutting and helps your templates release easily from the mat without damage.
Don’t Overcrowd the Mat
Leave a little space between shapes for cleaner cuts. While it may be tempting to fit as many templates as possible onto one sheet, overcrowding can lead to overlapping cuts or difficulty removing pieces. When making English paper piecing templates with the Cricut, spacing your shapes properly allows the blade to move cleanly between cuts and improves overall accuracy.
Stick with Default Pressure
There’s usually no need to adjust pressure when cutting cardstock. Cricut’s default settings are designed to work well for most materials, including cardstock. When cutting English paper piecing templates with the Cricut, increasing pressure can sometimes cause the blade to drag or tear the material, especially on intricate shapes like hexagons.
Use a Clean and Well-Sticky Mat
A clean cutting mat is essential for success. Dust, lint, or leftover fibers can reduce the stickiness of your mat, causing your cardstock to shift during cutting. This movement can ruin your English paper piecing templates with the Cricut by creating misaligned or uneven shapes. If your mat has lost its grip, consider cleaning it gently or replacing it to maintain accuracy.
Test Cut Before Full Production
Before cutting an entire sheet, do a small test cut. This ensures your settings, blade, and material are working perfectly together. When making multiple English paper piecing templates with the Cricut, a quick test can save you from wasting cardstock and time if something isn’t quite right.
Can You Cut Fabric Too?
Yes, your Cricut can cut fabric as well.
However, when working with English paper piecing templates with the Cricut, many quilters prefer:
- Cutting fabric strips manually (e.g., 2.5-inch jelly rolls)
- Using templates only for paper shapes
This reduces fabric waste and gives better control.
How Many Templates Do You Need?
If you’re planning a large quilt:
- A king-size quilt with 2-inch hexagons may require thousands of templates
- Some estimates go up to 4,000 pieces
This is where English paper piecing templates with the Cricut truly shine saving hours of manual cutting.
Cost vs Value: Is It Worth It?
While Cricut machines are an investment, they offer incredible versatility:
- Cut paper templates
- Cut fabric
- Create signs and crafts
- Cut PDF sewing patterns
Compared to buying pre-made templates, English paper piecing templates with the Cricut can save money over time.
When you look at the cost of pre-cut templates from quilting stores, the price can quickly add up especially for larger projects. If you’re working on a quilt that requires hundreds or even thousands of pieces, repeatedly purchasing templates becomes expensive. By switching to English paper piecing templates with the Cricut, you make a one-time investment in your machine and materials, then produce as many templates as you need at a fraction of the cost.
Another key factor is long-term value. A Cricut machine isn’t limited to just making English paper piecing templates with the Cricut. It becomes a multi-purpose tool in your sewing room. From cutting appliqué shapes to preparing entire quilting patterns, the machine continues to provide value across many different projects. This makes the initial cost easier to justify over time.
You also gain flexibility and independence. Instead of relying on store inventory or waiting for supplies, you can create exactly what you need, when you need it. Whether you want to try a new size, test a pattern, or produce bulk templates quickly, English paper piecing templates with the Cricut gives you complete control over your creative process while helping you stay efficient and cost-effective.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with English Paper Piecing Templates with the Cricut
Using Thin Paper
This can tear easily and won’t hold shape. When making English paper piecing templates with the Cricut, durability is essential because your templates will be folded, handled, and reused multiple times. Thin paper may seem like a cheaper option, but it often leads to frustration as it bends or rips during use. Cardstock provides the structure you need for clean folds and consistent results, making your quilting process much smoother.
Forgetting to Attach Shapes
Always attach inner shapes before cutting. If you’re adding elements like center circles, forgetting to attach them means your Cricut will treat each shape separately. This can ruin your layout and waste materials. When creating English paper piecing templates with the Cricut, always double-check that your shapes are properly attached so they cut exactly as intended.
Incorrect Sizing
Double-check measurements before duplicating. One small sizing mistake can multiply quickly when you copy your shapes across the canvas. This can lead to templates that don’t match your fabric pieces or quilting pattern. With English paper piecing templates with the Cricut, accuracy is everything, so always confirm your dimensions before moving forward.
Skipping Mat Prep
A poorly adhered sheet can shift during cutting. If your cardstock isn’t firmly pressed onto the mat, it may move while the blade is cutting, resulting in uneven or incomplete shapes. Proper mat preparation is key to achieving clean English paper piecing templates with the Cricut every time.
Overusing a Worn Cutting Mat
An old or overly worn mat can lose its stickiness, causing your material to slide during cutting. This can affect the precision of your English paper piecing templates with the Cricut and lead to wasted cardstock. If your mat no longer grips well, it’s worth cleaning or replacing it to maintain accuracy.
Not Checking Blade Settings
Using the wrong blade or incorrect settings can impact your final results. Even though most machines default to the correct setup, it’s still important to confirm everything before cutting. Ensuring the proper setup helps you consistently produce high-quality English paper piecing templates with the Cricut without unnecessary errors.
Final Thoughts on English Paper Piecing Templates with the Cricut
Creating your own English paper piecing templates with the Cricut is a game-changer for quilters. It combines precision, efficiency, and creativity in one simple process.
Not only will you save time and money, but you’ll also gain full control over your quilting designs. Once you try it, it’s hard to go back to cutting templates by hand.
Another major advantage of using English paper piecing templates with the Cricut is the consistency it brings to your projects. When every template is cut to the exact same size, your fabric pieces align beautifully, making stitching easier and more accurate. This reduces frustration and helps your finished quilt look more polished and professional. Over time, that level of precision can significantly improve the overall quality of your quilting work.
You’ll also find that using English paper piecing templates with the Cricut makes large projects far more manageable. Instead of dreading the cutting stage, you can quickly produce dozens or even hundreds of templates in a short amount of time. This allows you to focus more on the creative and enjoyable parts of quilting, like fabric selection and stitching.
Ultimately, English paper piecing templates with the Cricut give you the freedom to experiment, scale your projects, and work more efficiently. Whether you’re making a small decorative piece or a full-sized quilt, this method helps you achieve professional results with less effort and more enjoyment.
This is the link to the you tube tutorial : https://youtu.be/u5V7GysGOjA
- English Paper Piecing Templates with the Cricut – Powerful & Easy Method for Perfect Results
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If you enjoyed this tutorial you will like this too Make Leather Labels: 16 Powerful Steps to Create Beautiful Handmade Tags with a Cricut Maker https://faodailcreation.ca/2026/03/06/16-steps-to-make-leather-labels/
