Hallo from Germany! I did a lot of English paper piecing before I had a good sewing machine. Anyway, I used a metal template from ardco to cut out the papers, using a Sears catalog or any other catalog (I like my papers thin), and a paper cutter. Ardco has the hexagons in a variety of sizes and styles, either solid (that's what I use) or window style. I pin the fabric to the paper, and then baste around. And I use leftover thread for the basting, so I won't waste thread.
Hope that helps! Sayonara! Tirolgirl