Quick Answer

For small projects like coasters, ornaments, or mug rugs, 5/8" half hexagons are an ideal shape. Use a 1/4" seam option for standard piecing and a windowed version for fussy cutting.

Why 5/8" Half Hexagons Work for Small Projects

Tiny shapes like 5/8" half hexagons let you create intricate patterns without a large quilt footprint. They are perfect for coasters, mini wall hangings, or as accents in larger projects.

The 5/8" size is small enough to show off detailed fabric prints but still manageable for beginners. You can combine them with other shapes to build hexagon flowers or honeycomb patterns.

Choosing the Right Seam Allowance

Paper Pieces offers 5/8" half hexagons in no seam, 1/4" seam, 3/8" seam, and windowed options. For most EPP projects, a 1/4" seam is standard and works well with quilting cotton.

If you plan to use thicker fabrics like wool or felt, consider a 3/8" seam to reduce bulk. Windowed pieces are great for fussy cutting specific motifs, as they let you see exactly what will be visible.

Step-by-Step: Using 5/8" Half Hexagons

  1. Prepare Your Fabric and Papers: Cut fabric squares about 1/2" larger than the paper piece on all sides. For 5/8" half hexagons, a 1.5" square is usually enough. Place the paper in the center of the fabric. Double-check that the fabric covers the paper edges completely before basting.
  2. Baste the Fabric to the Paper: Use thread basting or glue basting. For tiny pieces, glue basting is faster and avoids bulky knots. Fold the fabric over the paper edges and secure with a dab of glue or a few stitches. Avoid pulling the fabric too tight – keep it smooth to prevent distortion.
  3. Sew the Half Hexagons Together: Place two basted pieces right sides together and whipstitch along one edge using a matching thread. Use small, even stitches and catch only the fabric layers, not the paper. Start and stop a few stitches before the corners to allow for easy joining of multiple pieces.
  4. Press and Remove Papers: After sewing all pieces, press the seams flat to one side. Then gently remove the paper pieces. You can reuse them for another project if they are still crisp. Wait until all seams are sewn before removing papers to maintain shape.

Product Facts

  • 5/8" Half Hexagons: 5/8" Half Hexagons are available in no seam, 1/4" seam, 3/8" seam, and windowed options, in packs of 100 or 600 pieces. Choose the seam allowance based on your fabric weight and the windowed version for precise fussy cutting.

    5/8" Half Hexagons

    5/8" Half Hexagons