A Journey into Deep Colors, Scrappy Quilts and Wonky Hexagons
Welcome quilting friends! A few weeks back I shared with you my newest pattern, the Inflorescences Quilt. Today, I’m excited to take you on a whimsical journey as we unveil the back of that quilt. A creation that boasts deep, dark colors reminiscent of a starry night and mysterious galaxies, made with fabric scraps. How is this scrappy quilt possible you might ask? With a Wonky Half Hexagon template.
Let’s break the quilt down into three different half hexagons and talk about using templates.
To begin, let’s talk about the foundation of this quilt back—the Wonky Half Hexagon.
I created 3 different types of Half Hexagons. All the following pieces will need to be 7″ x 11″. The first one is the simplest. When you make Half Hexagon 1, it is just one piece of fabric. The next two Half Hexagons are meant to put a dent in your smaller scraps. For Hexagon 2, sew strips together vertically. For Hexagon 3, sew strips together horizontally. To make this a scrappy quilt I used 2.5″ strips of left over fabrics.
How to make this Scrappy Quilt
Next up are templates—something I love using because I can really create unique patterns with templates. Here is how to use them:
- Put as many sheets of cardstock as needed in your printer. I like to have two of each template handy in case I cut into one.
- Print out your template at 100%. I am including an image of what my print window looks like along with what options I select. Be sure to double check that the document was printed correctly and didn’t default to fit to page. To do this simply measure the black box on the printout. I always use a 1” square.
- Next, cut the template out.
- Now, add something sticky to the pack of the template so it doesn’t slip as easily. You don’t want to use something that will rub off onto your fabric. Things that are perfect for this are: double stick tape, a glue stick, batting spray adhesive (a little goes a long way), or Velcro.
- Lay your fabric down on your cutting mat and place the template on top of the fabric.
- Then, place your ruler on top of the template and cut.
- Rotate the ruler to the next side you need to cut.
- Do this until all sides have been cut.
Half Hexagons use angled edges which can be tricky but fun to work with. I will dive a little deeper into that in a few weeks.
When making this quilt for the quilt back, I used a wider seam allowance because the back is the foundation for the quilt top. This project was perfect to use something I have been swooning over—luxurious black batting! Not only does it provide warmth and comfort, but also serves as the canvas upon which our creativity can flow. The best part is after many years of washing, it will not show white lint or ribbing because the batting is black.
I quilted this quilt on my new to me Bernina Q20. I pulled from many different motifs and embarked on a journey of exploration, allowing my creativity to flow freely. From swirling paisleys to pebbles, to petles , each motif tells a story with texture and depth which Hobbs Heirloom 80/20 Black Batting bring to life.
You can join in on the fun too! I’ve created a free downloadable Wonky Half Hexagon template so you can embark on your own quilting adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or a beginner, this template is sure to inspire creativity and spark joy.
So, what are you waiting for? Join my email list so you can get fun, free things like this Wonky Half Hexagon Template! Download your free template, gather your scrap fabrics, and let your imagination run wild.
