One of my favorite types of quilts is a pieced quilt with applique accents. It doesn’t take much applique to make a project special! Today’s tip is about using the Hex-a-ma-jig ruler to make a half hexie background for the Season’s Greetings Wall Quilt. I taught this class yesterday and I found out some really cool things about using the Hex-a-ma-jig ruler!
The ruler can make full hexies, half hexies, diamonds, 60 degree triangles and even Tumbling Blocks! The Hex-a-ma-jig tool works perfectly on 3 1/2″ strips and you can find it here on our website.. The Hex-a-ma-jig Junior works with 2 1/2″ wide strips and JellyRolls. Debbie Wendt invented these two fabulous tools, complete with great instructions both on the tool itself and in the booklet that comes with the tools.
I used 3 1/2″ strips and quickly and accurately cut half hexies and 60 degree triangles. The half hexies are assembled as rows, which makes the assembly super simple! When you assemble the rows, you will have right facing rows and left facing rows that come together to make full hexagons (Use Deb’s instructions or the instructions inside the Season’s Greetings Pattern). When you press the seams, make sure each row is pressed in opposite directions. You will have opposing seams and beautiful intersections as your half hexies come together. At the end of each row we used triangles to complete the zig-zag edge making the Season’s Greetings banner very unique!
This technique can be used for Season’s Greetings, or design your own applique wreath for the banner. Use standard leaves and add fresh spring blooms…you can even add a couple of critters! Use your imagination and your own design eye to adapt the techniques presented in our patterns to suit your own design style!
To learn more about Deb Wendt and the Hexie rulers, visit her facebook page and watch the Hex-a-ma-jig video here!
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