Create a patchwork quilt using large hexagons. Part 4

Creating Hexagon Rosettes.

Its been a couple of weeks since I wrote my last blog regarding the progress of the large hexagon quilt I am creating from a spare curtain.  Its been a bit boring creating seven hexagon rosettes out of the red and purple flowers extracted from the Gosford Cranberry fabric.   Pleased to announce that 25 rosettes have now been created and the design is about to get interesting.  I have laid them out randomly on the floor as the picture below shows.  Remaining are a few odd red flower hexagons and a big pile of hexagons created using the green leaves and buds.

I have also created a number of plain cream fabric covered hexagons to add to the mix.   I am really pleased that the rosettes are quite different in appearance.   

The fastest way to sew seven hexagons together is to lay the hexagons out to form a rosette onto a tray in the order that pleases you.  Use quality sewing thread and a sharp crewel sewing needle.  I use Gutermann 100% polyester and a size 10 needle.

The image below demonstrates the order the hexagons should be sewn together.  Sew the centre hexagon to an outer hexagon, wrong sides outwards.  The smaller your stitches, the stronger your work will be.  Start at the "start" point with three securing over stitches.  Sew the side of the hexagon to the corner and do a couple of overstitches.  Add the next outer hexagon and sew to the outer corner, secure with a couple of over stitches.  At this point you may have enough thread to make a loop back to the centre hexagon again.  Always secure with two or three stitches at each corner before you start on a straight edge.   Carry on until the rosette is formed.   This is by far the quickest way to create your hexagon.  On average it took me about 20 minutes to sew one rosette together.

I would like to point out the image below shows the front of the rosette.   Sew on the wrong side.  Use thread that matches your fabric.  If in doubt use beige or grey.   In the event that you sew a dark hexagon to a light hexagon use thread to match the dark fabric.  Do not remove any papers at this stage.

Above: finished rosettes:   Front view on left  and back view on right.

Please note on this occasion I have used fabric of different weights.  This will add texture to the quilt and its a personal choice.

See Parts 1,2,and 3 of my blog to discover how this stage was reached.

Part 5 of this blog will focus on arranging hexagons and rosettes into a design.