Octagons and Squares Mystery Project 2024

The first Mystery project of 2024 for the Sip Tea and EPP party is almost here! This time around, Irina and I have something special for you: we are going to introduce you to the lesser-known but equally delightful EPP shapes. Say goodbye to the usual hexagons and diamonds, because we will be exploring octagons and squares!

Prepare all your supplies and get ready to discover how to create practical and sweet makes that will beautifully complement our previous sewing projects. We believe that when it comes to making sewing accessories, there is always room for more! In this blog post you will find out about all the supplies and fabric choices you need for this exciting project.

Materials:

Two page printable templates (download at the end of the page). Check the measurements of the one inch test square on the pages to ensure the accuracy of the printing. The templates are full-size.

Please note that seam allowance is not included. We will be adding 6mm (¼”) seam allowance (SA) to the octagon and square pieces before cutting fabric.

(2) fabric scraps large enough to cut 1” octagons with ¼” (0.6 cm) SA

(8) fabric scraps large enough to cut 1” squares with ¼” (0.6 cm) SA

(2) 9” x 9” (22.9cm x 22.9cm) fabric for the base 

(1) 9” x 9” (22.9cm x 22.9cm) single sided fusible or regular batting 

Let’s go through the list of the required supplies for this make. Please DO NOT CUT your fabrics yet! Just go through your stash and pick the prints you would like to use for this project.

Version 1: I aim to achieve a "colour blocking" look with this fabric selection. Initially, I chose three primary fabrics: pink, yellow and grey for the squares. Subsequently, I decided to introduce red for the 1" octagon. To incorporate a low volume print, I found a fabric featuring grey pins with colourful balls on the ends, that complements the overall palette nicely.

Version 2: Opting for a whimsical theme, I have picked a selection of fabrics featuring the sweetest florals from Heather Ross' collections, adding a touch of playful charm. This delightful stash is going to complement the Winter Mystery Basket we created last year beautifully.

1. Octagons

You will need one piece of fabric featuring a lovely print or fussy cut design, paired with another piece of solid fabric preferably in a lighter shade. This lighter fabric won't be visible once the project is complete, but it will provide essential support and structure to your creation.

If you would like this make to complement the previous makes you created with us, then choose the same or similar fabrics. If this is your first time sewing with us, then choose the fabrics you really like.

Version1: I decided to go with the bright red for my 1" octagon and white as the second print that won't be visible. For the squares I picked four colours - low volume (to match the large base octagon), pink, yellow and grey.

Version 2: I am going to use this beautiful floral print that fits nicely into a 1" octagon. For the other octagon, I will use solid off white cotton. As for the squares, I am very keen on a rainbow palette with a touch of florals.

2. Squares Select coordinated fabrics for both the octagons and squares. When it comes to the fabrics for the squares, the choice is yours: you can choose solid colours or prints. Each square can showcase a different colour, bringing vibrancy into the design with a hint of "colour blocking" style. Alternatively, for a more cohesive appearance, consider using the same colour for all eight squares while incorporating variations in prints. This approach gives a unified and harmonious look to the piece. With this flexibility, the possibilities are endless, enabling you to create a truly unique and personalised piece.

3. Base fabrics (large octagon) Using a base fabric in coordinated or contrasting colours compared to the octagon and square fabrics can produce a visually striking and dynamic effect. Coordinated fabrics feature similar colours or complementary designs, while contrasting fabrics showcase different colours or patterns. Both methods offer opportunities to infuse depth and intrigue into the project, enabling creative expression and personalisation.

Another option is to use low volume fabrics for the base, as they provide a subtle and understated background that allows the other elements of this project to shine. Low volume fabrics typically feature light colours and small-scale prints, giving a soft and delicate appearance. By blending low volume fabrics with printed or solid-coloured squares and octagons, you can achieve a balanced and harmonious design overall.

Version 1: I am using two prints - grey and low volume. I like how the squares and 1" octagon will pop on this base.

Version 2: The second pull for the base is a bit more complicated. I am thinking of using the top white fabric with frogs and linen to complement the Winter Mystery Basket we made last year. I love the butterfly print, but I am afraid that it might be a little bit too busy when this project is complete. So I am going to wait a bit longer and see how I feel. I might picked the floral print to complement the rest of florals.

4. Batting You will need a piece of single sided fusible batting or regular batting. Why use fusible batting? We believe that fusible batting gives a nicer structure to the final make and lightness as well as it gives your make better stability and shape retention.

We hope these tips and suggestions will assist you in selecting the perfect fabrics for this mystery project. We are looking forward to sewing with you again!

Most importantly, have fun!

Larisa and Irina xo