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

Baby Hexagon Quilt

Baby Hexagon Quilt centre - half-inch hexagons have been fussy-cut and similar colours placed opposite to give balance.  The hexagons on the 6 corners have been positioned to hide the seams of the background panel.

The scalloped edges of this quilt have been turned in to enclose the batting
and whip-stitched together to give a very soft finish.
The backing fabric of cotton voile adds to the softness of this baby quilt. 



Anna Brereton Quilt

This is a section of the central 1" hexagon medallion in the Anna Brereton Quilt. The framing hexagons around the 7 panels have been fussy-cut, while the corners of the medallion have been filled in with random scrap hexagons.

Detail of the edging on the Anna Brereton Coverlet - folded over to reveal the backing fabric.  The edging was sandwiched between the top and backing, and then folded over the top, to be appliqued on the outside edge. This type of edging is called a "dog tooth" border.  This edging is the same fabric as is used to surround the central panel in the quilt - "Zarafa" the Giraffe.