Are you interested in learning how to make a hexagon quilt template? If so, you are in the right place. In this article, we will go through 6 easy steps to help you create a beautiful hexagon quilt template. With just a few simple supplies, you can easily make a stunning quilt with hexagon-shaped pieces. So, let’s get started!
What is a Hexagon Quilt Template?
A hexagon quilt template is a paper template that is used to cut hexagons for quilting. These templates are usually made out of plastic, acrylic, or cardboard and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. They are essential for any quilter who wants to make precise hexagons for their quilt projects.
Benefits of Hexagon Quilt Templates
- Provide precision and accuracy in cutting perfect hexagons
- Can be used to cut multiple hexagons of the same size
- Great for making small and large quilts
- Can be used to create unique designs for quilts
Hexagon quilt templates are available in craft stores and online, so you don’t have to worry about where to buy hexagon quilt templates. You can also make your own template by tracing a hexagon shape on a piece of paper and cutting it out.
Materials Required for Making a Hexagon Quilt Template
- Fabric: Choose a variety of fabrics in coordinating colors and prints. For a traditional hexagon quilt, use a solid fabric for the background and a variety of prints for the hexagons.
- Template Material: Choose a template material that is easy to cut and sew. Cardstock, plastic template material, or template plastic are all good choices.
- Rotary Cutter and Mat: A rotary cutter and mat are essential for cutting out the hexagons.
- Fabric Glue: Fabric glue is used to hold the fabric in place while sewing.
- Scissors: Scissors are needed to trim the excess fabric when sewing.
- Sewing Machine: A sewing machine with a ¼ inch foot is necessary for sewing the hexagons together.
- Iron and Ironing Board: An iron and ironing board are needed to press the fabric and seams.
- Thread: Choose a coordinating thread for sewing the hexagons together.
- Quilt Batting: Choose a quilt batting that is the same size as the quilt top.
Step 1: Measuring the Hexagon Quilt Template
- Measure the desired size of the quilt template with a ruler.
- Calculate the length of each side of the hexagon, taking into account the desired size of the quilt.
- Mark the appropriate measurements on the fabric with a washable fabric marker.
- Cut the fabric along the marked lines.
Step 2: Cutting the Hexagon Quilt Template Pieces
- Gather Materials: Gather the supplies needed to cut the hexagon quilt template pieces. You will need a ruler, a rotary cutter, a mat, and the template pieces (which can be purchased online or made from scratch).
- Layout the Pieces: Lay out the template pieces according to the pattern you have chosen. Make sure the pieces fit together correctly and that the edges line up.
- Mark the Pieces: Mark the pieces with the ruler, making sure to mark the center of each piece.
- Cut the Pieces: Place the template pieces on the mat and use the rotary cutter to cut along the marked lines.
- Repeat: Repeat this process until all the pieces have been cut and all the template pieces are ready to be used.
Step 3: Assembling the Hexagon Quilt Template
- Cutting the Hexagons – Cut out 36 paper hexagons of the desired size from the template. Be sure to cut out the inside portion of each hexagon to create the finished shape.
- Arranging the Hexagons – Arrange the hexagons in a hexagon quilt pattern. There are many different patterns available and you can choose one that suits your style. Once the pattern is chosen, it’s time to lay out the hexagons.
- Joining the Hexagons – Join the hexagons together using a running stitch. Start in the center of the quilt and work your way outwards. You can also use a sewing machine to speed up the process.
- Adding Borders and Finishing Touches – Once the hexagons are joined, add a border to the quilt to give it a finished look. You can use fabric, ribbon, or even buttons for a unique look. If desired, add additional embellishments, such as quilting, applique, or embroidery, to personalize the quilt.
Tip: Fusible webbing can be used to help hold the hexagons in place while the quilt is being assembled.
Step 4: Sewing the Hexagon Quilt Template
- Piecing Hexagons: Sew the hexagons together in rows, stitching through the marked diagonal line. After sewing each row, press the seams open. Once all the hexagons are sewn, sew the rows together.
- Adding Borders: If you want to add borders to your quilt, measure the width and length of the centers and cut four strips of fabric to the measurements. Sew the strips around the quilt to form borders.
- Quilting: Lay the batting on the back side of the quilt and quilt in the hexagons. You can use a variety of quilting techniques, such as outlining the shapes or adding a pattern.
- Binding: Cut four strips of fabric 2.5″ wide and sew the strips together end to end. Fold the binding in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and press. Sew the binding around the quilt, mitering the corners.
Step 5: Finishing the Hexagon Quilt Template
To finish the hexagon quilt template, secure the edges of the fabric with pins. Then, sew the edges together with a ¼ inch seam allowance. Trim the edges to make them even. Next, turn the template right side out, press the edges and top stitch the edges in place. Lastly, press the template flat and you are done!
Step 6: Finishing Touches
- Trim the excess fabric: Cut away any excess fabric from the sides of the template. This will help to ensure the quilt looks neat and tidy.
- Roll and store it: Once you have trimmed the excess fabric, roll up the template and store it away in a safe place.
- Ready to go: Your hexagon quilt template is now ready for use. You can buy hexagon quilt templates from most fabric stores or online.
Where to Buy Hexagon Quilt Templates
Hexagon quilt templates can be found in craft stores, fabric shops, or online. Many crafting websites offer pre-made hexagon quilt templates in a variety of sizes. These templates are great for quickly and accurately cutting out fabric pieces for quilting projects. They also make it easy to accurately piece together the hexagons in a quilt top.
For those looking to customize their hexagon quilt, there are a variety of companies that offer custom hexagon template sets. These sets can be designed to fit any size hexagon and make it easy to create a quilt top with varying sizes and shapes of hexagons.
For those who prefer to make their own hexagon quilt template, there are several websites that offer free printable hexagon templates. These templates can be printed out at home and used to create a custom quilt template.
Overall, there are many ways to source hexagon quilt templates. Whether it’s from a craft store, fabric shop, online, or a free printable template, there is sure to be an option to suit any quilter’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of fabric is suitable for making a hexagon quilt template?
Sturdy and durable fabrics, such as cotton, wool, polyester or muslin, are best suited for making a hexagon quilt template. For best results, opt for medium-weight fabrics that won’t stretch or tear easily. Avoid using fabrics with large prints or patterns, as these may make it difficult to accurately cut out the hexagon shape.
What tools or equipment are needed to make a hexagon quilt template?
- Fabric: Choose a medium-weight cotton or linen fabric for your quilt template.
- Rotary Cutter: You will need a rotary cutter with a sharp blade to cut the fabric pieces accurately.
- Cutting Mat: Use a cutting mat to protect your work surface and ensure accurate cutting of the fabric.
- Ruler: A ruler is necessary to measure the fabric and make sure the pieces are cut to the same size.
- Hexagon Template: You will need a template to trace the hexagon shape on the fabric. You can use a plastic or paper template, or make your own using a compass and ruler.
- Pen or Marker: Use a pen or marker to trace the hexagon shape onto the fabric.
- Scissors: Scissors are needed to cut out the hexagon shapes.
How can I make sure my hexagon quilt template is accurate?
- Measure Twice, Cut Once: Take precise measurements of your hexagon template and use those measurements to cut out the shapes. Double-check measurements to ensure accuracy.
- Use a Template: Use a template with accurate measurements to cut out your shapes. This will help ensure you don’t make any mistakes when cutting out the hexagons.
- Use a Ruler: Use a ruler to draw a straight line when cutting out the hexagons. This will help ensure that the template is accurate and the hexagons are the correct size.
- Use a Rotary Cutter: Use a rotary cutter to cut out the hexagons. This will help ensure that the template is precise and the edges of the hexagons are clean and even.
- Check the Pieces: Once the template is cut out, check each piece to make sure it is the correct size and shape. If any pieces are not the correct size or shape, cut them again.
What type of seam allowances should I use for my hexagon quilt template?
For a hexagon quilt template, use ¼-inch seam allowances. When you are piecing together the hexagons, be sure to keep the seam allowances consistent. To avoid unnecessary bulk, trim away excess fabric around the seam allowances.
How can I make sure my hexagon quilt template pieces fit together properly?
To ensure the template pieces fit together properly, measure each side of each piece to make sure they are all the same length and that the angles are all the same. Once cut, lay the pieces out on a flat surface to check they fit together correctly. If they don’t, make adjustments as needed. Additionally, it’s important to use a ¼ inch seam allowance when piecing the template together.
Conclusion
Making a hexagon quilt template is a great way to create a unique and beautiful quilt. Following these 6 easy steps will help ensure that your template is accurate and perfect for your project. With careful measurements and careful cutting, your hexagon quilt template will be ready to use and your project will be off to a great start.
