No Paper Hexagons - see update at post #18
 

I've tried several way to make hexagons. I do not care for the English Paper methods (gluing or basting). I also hate cutting and love my die cutter. So I came up with a No Paper Hexie method that works best for me. Here it is Step-by step.
http://heartofwisdom.com/heartathome...n_tutorial.jpg
[h=2][/h][h=2]Step 1: Cut Fabric into Hexagon Shapes[/h]I use a 1.25 Sizzix Big Shot die below, Accuquilt also has a hexagon die.
http://heartofwisdom.com/heartathome...ie_hexagon.jpg
http://heartofwisdom.com/heartathome...rumptious1.jpg
[h=2][/h][h=2]Step 2: Cut and Mark a Template[/h]Cut cardstock or cardboard with the same size die cutter. Mark 1/4 inch from each side.
http://heartofwisdom.com/heartathome...n-template.jpg
[h=2][/h][h=2]Step 3: Hole Punch the Template[/h]Punch each place where the 1/4 inch lines intersect. I used a 1/8 hole punch.
http://heartofwisdom.com/heartathome...n-template.jpg
[h=2][/h][h=2]Step 4: Use the Template to Mark Fabric[/h]Line up the fabric and template. Mark the back of the fabric. If you are new to sewing 1/4 inch mark the lines, If you can eyeball it just mark the dots where intersections meet. Use a pencil or marker that will wash out.
http://heartofwisdom.com/heartathome...mark_lines.jpg
[h=3][/h][h=2]Step 5: Stitch Hexes with a Running Stitch[/h]Take a stitch beginning at the intersection. Back stitch Take a running stitch to the other side. Back stitch.
The running stitch is faster and easier than a whip stitch and doesn't show threads on the front. Yu can also machine sew just remember to start and stop at the 1/4 inch mark (I usually machine piece but small hexes are almost as fast by hand because you need machine leaders and enders.)
http://heartofwisdom.com/heartathome...ing-stitch.jpg
[h=2]Helpful Hexies Tips[/h]This is my sewing basket. The entire top is a pin cushion. I carry all my hexes, scissors, etc. inside to take to waiting rooms or in the car sewing.
http://heartofwisdom.com/heartathome...ing_basket.jpg

I can use the top to pin my hexes layout. It also holds my needle when I have to add pieces to the hexies.
http://heartofwisdom.com/heartathome...gon_layout.jpg
I just love cutting fabric with a die cutter.
http://heartofwisdom.com/heartathome...cut-hexies.jpg

Very cool toot!

Thanks for showing! Love your hexies!!!

thanks for taking the time to post the tut. this is the method i learned about 40 years ago to hand piece.

Really? I like it much better than paper. Makes more sense to me too.

Thanks...I have die cutter too (GO). Although I don't mind EPP this is another possibility for the hex dies too!

great tutorial I love hexies but haven't had the nerve to try them you have inspired me to THINK! about getting some kind of die cutter machine and if I do hexie die will be at the top of the list did you use the cutter to cut the carboard template

Thanks for the tutorial. someday I WILL get this right. have stared and put away {trashed} so many hexie projects but I'm at the point that is do or eles now.Thank again.

Thanks I'm bookmarking this page for future reference

Ditto did the same.

This method makes total sense to me.

I like this method. Great tute!!!

Thanks for the tute!

Two questions: do you mark every single hexagon?
Also, you don't tie a knot at all? Just one back stitch?

I mark every hexagon. Maybe after a while I won't have to but I'm new to hand piecing.
Yes, Tie a not before and each time you end off.

[ATTACH=CONFIG]476017[/ATTACH]

Here is a video showing the sewing
il_570xN.538794130_6gwp.jpg

Thanks for the Tutorial-made me go out and get the machine-so tired of cutting by hand-great job-Thanks from me-doing a Grandmothers Flower Garden Quilt got easier

Update on No-Paper Hexagons
 

http://www.quiltingboard.com/tutoria...s-t246917.html
Made a major change on the tutorial from cardboard to metal template. Posting here so it's not missed.
[h=2]UPDATE: NEW Step 2, 3, and 4[/h]A week after I made and used the cardboard template with holes I received ARDCO Hexagon Window Metal Template.
http://heartofwisdom.com/heartathome...ate_metal2.jpg

It’s twice as fast to mark seeing lines on hexes! And super for marking fussy cuts! I purchased the 1″ metal template for the 1.25″ die cut fabric. Fits perfect and will not slide.
I ordered mine over the phone from ARDCO (757)553-8689 (trouble ordering from web site)
http://heartofwisdom.com/heartathome...late_metal.jpg

Thank you for clarifying! Great tute and excellent info! :-)

Nice tutorial!! Thanks for sharing!

Love to do hexies will try your pattern and sewing idea, thanks for sharing a tute.

Where did you get the sewing basket? I need one.
reply to [email protected]

Sweeeeet!

peace

This is the way I did my first GFG quilt. Now I am trying the English Paper Piecing.

Thank you, am always looking for new ways to do things