Here is the simple way to hand stitch hexies like our grandmothers used to do. Not the EPP way. No need to cut papers, use glues or take the time to remove papers. The stitching in this tutorial is for right hand stitching which works right to left. I imagine left hand work will be left to right?
a template,
fabric scraps,
a pencil (I use a heat sensitive fine tip marker),
very sharp scissors,
finger cushion that holds only
ONE pin
ONE needle,
thread
small scissors (these fold) to cut thread if you don't want to use your scissors.
As you can see my thread spool and scissors are attached to my thumb cushion because everything kept falling on the floor while I was stitching.
For a Grandmother's Flower Garden Flower you'll need a center and 6 "petals."
The Flower Garden pattern actually surrounds each flower with with white hexies, I believe.
The secret to perfect corners is matching the corner dots as perfectly as possible.
Our Grandmother's didn't have the luxury of the point holes on their templates.
Begin with a knotted single thread, then back stitch 3 times.
Once you've had to take out one of these seams,
you'll understand how secure this method works.
Remove pin, and bring needle out through dot.
Do NOT cut thread if you can go on and stitch another seam.
I've turned over the work, and
pinned the outer point.
Match the inner points with the needle.
Triple back stitch and proceed stitching the seam.
then before cutting make about 3 stitches going back,
or I sometimes use the embroidery Outline stitch.
Then cut thread because you can't go on to another seam at this point.
and folding over the other piece in half.
Do NOT cut thread because you are able to stitch on another "petal."
Repeat the process until you get to last "petal" and cut thread.
TIP------DO NOT bring the needle OVER a seam,
but always go through the seam on the dot when need.
Pin inside corner and start stitching with knotted single thread
from outside right. Remember back stitch 3 times.
All this back stitching will truly hold the seams together.
Do NOT cut thread.
Once more move the pink piece on around to line up with the blue
for the last seam.
Pin match the outer point,
beginning with the triple back stitch,
and end with the triple back stitch.
Because points were matched,
the corners should come out perfect.
A tip by a hand sewer:
Thread several needles before you start.
Then you don't have to pause to thread a needle.
Also, thread the needles when daylight is good.
Sometimes it's harder to thread needles by night light.
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Thank you for your clear instructions. I am going to try this method
ReplyDeleteLots of great tips Joy - thank you! I'm considering re-vamping my original plan for the hexxie quilt I started but the jury is still out.
ReplyDeleteGreat tutorial! I love when they have lots of photos. Very clear. Thanks for sharing on Wednesday Wait Loss.
ReplyDeleteSuch a great tutorial! Thanks for sharing it on Wednesday Wait Loss.
ReplyDeleteI've been wanting to give hexies a try, thanks for sharing your picture tutorial.
ReplyDelete