How to Make a Vintage Hexies Quilt

Growing up, I remember my grandmother Julie having a special quilt draped over her couch. It was beautifully stitched with hexagonal patterns in a plethora of vibrant colors. I used to trace my fingers over the hexies, feeling the texture and warmth of her love and dedication with each touch.

This quilt has been in our family for generations, and it was Grandma Julie who inspired me to dive into the world of quilting. When I came across hexagon quilts, it rekindled those warm childhood memories, and I knew I had to create one for myself.

The Allure of Hexagon Quilts

Hexagon quilts, commonly known as “Hexies”, are timeless. They have been a favorite among quilting enthusiasts for their mesmerizing patterns and the sense of achievement they bring.

The intricate design looks complicated, but with the right tools and patience, anyone can create their own masterpiece.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Fabric scraps (primarily in yellow and vintage hues)
• Accuquilt’s Go Baby fabric cutting machine or similar tool
• 3″ die for cutting hexagons
• Sewing machine
• Thread in matching colors
• Pins
• Scissors

Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Hexie Quilt

1. Preparing the Hexagons:

• Begin by selecting your fabric. For a vintage feel, opt for muted yellows and any print that gives off an old-world charm.
• Using the Go Baby fabric cutter, prepare your hexagons. This tool can cut up to 6 layers simultaneously, ensuring uniform and precise hexagons. Run your fabric strips through the cutter and watch the magic happen.

2. Making the Hexies:

• Pair two hexagons with their right sides facing each other.
• Machine stitch around the edges, remembering to leave a small opening on one side for turning.
• Clip the pointed edges for a smoother finish.
• Turn the hexagon right side out and pin the opening closed.

3. Assembling the Quilt:

• You’ll need 27 hexies for a Blythe quilt, but you can always adapt the number depending on the size you desire.
• Lay out your hexagons, ensuring that no two similar prints are adjacent to each other. This randomness adds to the vintage charm.
• Sew the hexagons together using a blind stitch. Pro tip: While joining two hexagons, close the open edges, making the process smoother.
• Once all hexagons are sewn, revel in the beauty of your creation. You can choose to press your hexagons, but leaving them gives a puffy, three-dimensional effect.

Additional Tips and Techniques

• If you’re keen on a more traditional look, you can go for quilt tops with a backing.
• Make your quilt reversible for added versatility. Though it requires hand sewing, the dual look is worth the effort.
• For those looking to enhance their hexie, consider adding embellishments or using metallic threads for a modern twist.

Additional Tips and Techniques for Creating a Hexie Quilt

1. Fabric Selection:

• Color Harmony: When choosing fabrics, consider the overall color palette. While contrasts can be attractive, a harmonious blend of shades creates a more pleasing visual effect.
• Texture Matters: Don’t just focus on the color and design; the texture can add depth and dimension to your quilt. Mix and match cotton, linen, or even silk for varied tactile sensations.

2. Precise Cutting:

• Starch Your Fabric: Before cutting, lightly starch your fabrics. This makes them more rigid and easier to cut, especially when using tools like the Accuquilt’s Go Baby fabric cutting machine.
• Regular Blade Maintenance: Keep the cutting machine blades sharp. Regular maintenance ensures clean cuts, which are essential for the precision required in hexie quilts.

3. Sewing Techniques:

• Consistent Seam Allowance: Ensure your seam allowance is consistent for all hexagons. This ensures they fit together perfectly.
• Hand Sewing vs. Machine: While machine sewing is faster, hand sewing can offer more control for intricate pieces. Decide based on your comfort and the final look you’re aiming for.

4. Layout and Design:

• Audition Your Layout: Before sewing hexagons together, lay them out on a flat surface to ‘audition’ the design. This allows you to rearrange as necessary to achieve the desired effect.
• Photograph Different Layouts: If you’re unsure about the final design, take photos of different layouts. Reviewing these can help you decide on the best pattern.

5. Quilting and Binding:

• Choose a Complementary Quilting Pattern: The stitching pattern you choose for quilting can elevate your hexie design. Consider simple straight lines, diagonal stitches, or even free-motion quilting patterns that resonate with hexagons.
• Bias Binding: If you’re binding your quilt’s edges, using a bias binding is beneficial due to its flexibility, especially around the hexagonal edges.

6. Care and Maintenance:

• Wash with Care: If using different fabric types, prewash them before starting your project. This helps prevent any potential shrinkage or color bleeding later on.
• Storage: Store your quilt in a cool, dry place. If keeping it for extended periods, periodically refold it to avoid permanent creases.

7. Experiment and Personalize:

• Add Embellishments: Consider adding beads, sequins, or embroidery to individual hexagons for a personalized touch.
• Labels: Stitch a small label on the back of your quilt, noting the date and any special significance. It’s a beautiful way to add history to your creation.

Remember, the beauty of quilting lies in its blend of precision and creativity. While it’s essential to be meticulous in your techniques, don’t forget to let your personality shine through your designs. Happy quilting!

Full Pattern: Click Here

Embracing the Legacy of Hexies

Creating a hexie quilt is not merely a pastime or a way to kill time. It’s a profound journey down memory lane, a heartfelt tribute to our forebears, and a tangible emblem of love and craftsmanship to be passed down through future generations. Each stitch and pattern tells a story, echoing with memories of cherished moments.

As I lay down my hexie quilt on the cool grass, I’m instantly transported back to those golden afternoons at Grandma Julie’s cozy abode, where every quilt seemed to whisper tales of yesteryears, and the love and warmth seemed to permeate through every thread and fabric of her meticulously crafted hexie quilt. For many, hexie quilts are not just about patterns and fabrics; they’re a canvas that weaves together personal stories, emotions, and history.

Whether you’re just embarking on your quilting journey or have been honing your craft for years, hexies offer a uniquely enriching experience, seamlessly blending age-old tradition with boundless creativity. So, as you embark on this journey, ponder over this – what timeless tales and memories will your hexie quilt encapsulate? What story are you choosing to stitch into existence?