EPP hexie projects are just the best way to use up fabric scraps. And sitting quietly basting hexagons is one of my favourite ways to relax in the evenings! I found 16 free tutorials that use English paper pieced hexagons, so now I can make a dent in my precious fabric scrap pile!
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The great thing about epp hexies is that you can make them and save them up until the perfect project comes along. Instead of stuffing your scraps into a bin, make some hexies!
But first things first, you might have some questions about EPP before you’re ready to dive in, so let’s tackle 3 FAQs first.
1. What is an EPP Project?
EPP stands for English Paper Piecing. It is a method of creating (typically) small shapes with fabric by wrapping them around a paper template and hand-basting the seam allowances in place. Then you hand-sew the shapes together to create a larger design. It ends up looking like an assembly of quilt pieces.
2. What can you make with EPP?
The reason EPP exists is because you can create more intricate and/or smaller designs by hand than you can with traditional quilt piecing by machine.
For example, check out this amazing design:
That is not a design that could be accomplished by machine. The geometric shapes are too complex.
(Full disclosure, those EPP flowers are actually a pattern I found on Etsy. They are so drop dead gorgeous I had to include them! And possibly purchase the pattern too….)
You can make any number of projects with EPP designs, just like you can with traditional pieced designs. Quilts, table runners, clothing, pouches, linens, baby blankets, wall hangings, etc. You name it, you can make it!
3. How Do You EPP?
Most of the free designs listed below include a little explanation on how to EPP. But here are a few resources to get you started.
This is how I create & baste hexies:
Then this is how I sew hexies together:
This technique should work no matter what shape you’re working with.
Some people prefer to glue-baste with a glue stick instead.
One thing I do differently now is baste in a bright coloured thread. That way when it’s time to pull out the basting stitches I don’t get them mixed up with the finished stitches.
If you prefer a video tutorial, this one is great!
EPP Hexie Projects
Ok, let’s move along to some amazing EPP projects you can make with hexies!
1. Fussy Cut Zip Pouch
Um, ok, so these fabrics are legit the cutest!
2. Hexie Towel Upcycle
I upcycled these once-ugly hand towels into something cuter and fresher!
3. Hexagon Baby Bibs
Modern bibs for modern droolers.
4. Hexagon Table Runner
So much rainbow hexie goodness!
5. Hexie Magnet
Did you know that stainless steel fridges aren’t magnetic? Cuz I didn’t. And now my fridge is sad and without cute magnet adornment. I’d make a dozen of these if I had anything to stick them to!
6. Hexie Placemat
Another of my projects. I made this as a plant mat for the one real plant in my house (not pictured) that I’m desperately trying to keep alive.
Also check out: 22 DIY Fabric Scrap Projects
7. Hexie Mini Quilt
More rainbow hexies. Gosh I love them!
8. Arrow & Hexie Bed Runner
My bed needs a runner, maybe it needs this one? So pretty.
9. Hexie Pillow Case
This would be so sweet for a little girl’s bed.
10. Hexagon Needle Book
It’s little hexies, decorating a hexagonal needle book. So much hexie love.
11. Hexie Tote Bag
Turns out I love big hexies as much as little ones, this free tote pattern can use big hexies or small. Also tote bags are always a good idea.
12. Hexie Pincushion
I’ve got pincushion envy.
13. Hexagon Clock
It’s like modern mid-century! Is that a thing? lol
14. Hexie Block Zip Pouch
This would be a great cosmetic pouch or pencil case.
15. Hexagon Notebook
Hexies are the perfect scrap-buster for special fabrics. And a great way to add colour to your stuff.
16. Pineapple Placemat
Summer decor at it’s hexie finest!
I’m guessing if you didn’t already love hexies before reading this post, you’re hooked now eh?!
There are just so many cute epp hexie projects to choose from, so many hexies, so little time.
What will you make with hexies?
[…] For this to be a trick or treat tote bag for kids, you’d probably want to lengthen the straps and adjust their positioning. But that’s not a difficult alteration. And look at those happy little hexies! (For more hexie projects, check out 16 EPP Hexie Projects to Sew.) […]