If you are inspired by the projects or tutorials on this blog, I would love to see pictures of what you make. Please share your photos on Instagram (@grannymaudsgirl).
Tutorials
Tips
If you are inspired by the projects or tutorials on this blog, I would love to see pictures of what you make. Please share your photos on Instagram (@grannymaudsgirl).
Thank you for the peg bag pattern. I have spent a rainy afternoon making one, it is almost finished. I am really chuffed!!! Jane. Jalelizane STUDIO
I am fascinated by the detail in all of your work! It is lovely. You have mentioned hexie papers and I am not sure what they are but I have a feeling they are helpful in sewing them. Can you explain the process please?
Kindest regards,
Nancy Thompson
Denver, Colorado
Hi, Nancy,
‘Hexie papers’ are hexagon-shaped pieces of paper. They are used for a technique called English paper piecing, in which fabric is wrapped around paper shapes and basted in place before the shapes are sewn together. The paper holds the fabric in the desired shape while you sew, but it is removed after sewing. The papers can be reused many times.
The pieces are sewn together with a whip stitch or ladder stitch.
I posted a picture of the papers and my English paper piecing kit here: https://grannymaudsgirl.wordpress.com/2013/03/24/falling-in-love-with-hexagons-again/.
You can buy the paper shapes – hexagons and other shapes – ready-made from craft shops and online stores, or you can make your own with some heavy paper or light card and scissors. If you have plans to make a whole quilt out of one shape and need lots, you can buy cutters that allow you to cut up things like old magazines or tea boxes into perfect shapes. (I haven’t tried these, but I have seen Fiskars brand in the shops.)
English paper piecing is a great technique for beginners, and it is also great for travelling. You will find heaps of books and online tutorials about it.
I hope this helps.
Carla