English Paper Piecing - 1

A hexagon is measured along its side, which is equal to the radius.
The larger the hexagon (or other geometric shape), the more seam allowance or turning, you will need. e.g.:
  *  for a 1/2" hexagon - allow 1/4"
  *  for a 3/4" hexagon - allow a scant 3/8th"
  *  for a 1" hexagon - allow 3/8th"
  *  for a 1 1/2" and over - allow 1/2"

Firstly, make accurate cutting templates in clear plastic, including the required seam allowance.  Mark the original hexagon shape in the centre, and lines on point and square for fussy-cutting fabrics

Hold your plastic template over the fabric and cut around the shape.  It isn't necessary to draw a line first.  Remember the papers will be accurate, the fabric is approximately accurate.  If you are fussy-cutting a motif, the lines will help align the same centre point and direction of your motif.  If you are not fussy-cutting, fabric can be folded to cut as many thicknesses as your scissors will allow - I cut up to 6 thicknesses.

Baste the fabric over the papers without stitching through the paper - see English Paper Piecing - 2.  This way the papers can be removed without removing the basting. The basting secures the folded edges and prevents them bunching when the work is washed.  Traditionally, English Paper Pieced work was not quilted. They were used as decorative coverlets on beds or furniture or as bed and curtain hangings.
Papers were sometimes left inside quilts made for charity - this added an extra layer of warmth - there is a reference to the "rustling of the quilt" in Oliver Twist.
Pre-cut paper geometric shapes in all sizes can be purchased from:
www.busyfingerspatchwork.com  in Australia
www.paperpieces.com in USA

English Paper Piecing - 2



Right-handers: 1 - Work in a clockwise direction. Fold the right side first

2 -  fold the left side

3 - Stitch through the fold, without going through the paper. Start with 2 stitches

4 - continue folding right hand first, pushing the fold under the left side.

5 - after the first corner, make one stitch only in each of the next 4 corners

6 - remember to push the right-hand fold under the left-hand fold

7 - the crossed-over thread holds the folds down - sewing in a clockwise direction 

8 - if you don't have nails to tuck the right fold under the left fold, use the tip of the needdle to push the fabric up.

9 - finish with 2 stitches across the last (6th) fold

10 - remember that the basting stays in your work (for eternity) so snip your thread just short of the edge, so that it does not show on the right side.

11 - this is what the basting looks like - stitch approximately in the middle of your turning so that the papers don't fall out as you are whip-stitching the hexagons together.