I do the same as Mike'sgirl. I also cut the fabric into squares and then trim a bit of the excess fabric. I use the hexagon punch too - works great! I also use a hole punch to put a hole in the middle of the hexie template, baste the fabric (do not go through the paper) and when it comes time to remove the paper template just flip them out with a chopstick or end of your scissors. Easy peasy! I also leave the basting in - can't see it and it doesn't do any harm. Have fun making hexies!