How to Machine Piece Hexagons

Joining hexagons by machine isn't difficult! Follow our step-by-step photos to guide you through the process.

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Get Started

When joining hexagons rows by machine, set-in seams are required. Though the positioning of the pieces is unusual, sewing hexagons together by machine doesn't have to be difficult; just take it one seam at a time, pinning and sewing carefully.

Practice this technique with the pattern Making the Cut by designer Diane Reinhart, shown on this slide.

Buy this pattern here.

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Step 1

To join hexagons in vertical rows, adjacent rows need to be offset. (Example that follows shows top hexagon in Row 2 already trimmed to make a half hexagon.)

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Step 2

With right sides together, place first Row 2 hexagon atop first Row 1 hexagon. (In this example, Row 2 begins with a half hexagon.)Note: Many patterns have you draw dots 1/4" from each hexagon point using a template for your seam allowance. If your pattern doesn't do this, make sure you start and stop sewing 1/4" from each point.

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Step 3

Push a pin through each pair of dots to align pieces, then pin pieces together.

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Step 4

Sew from dot to dot, locking seam ends with backstitches or tiny (0.5-millimeter-long) machine stitches.

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Step 5

Open up pieces and reposition Row 2 over Row 1. Align and pin next seam.

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Step 6

Without catching seam allowance in stitching, sew next seam from dot to dot.

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Step 7

Open up pieces and reposition Row 2 over Row 1. Align and pin third seam.

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Step 8

Sew third seam from dot to dot. Do not sew through seam allowances. Continue in same manner until all seams are sewn.

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Step 9

Press first seam intersection counterclockwise, forming a tiny hexagon on the fabric wrong side. Press next seam intersection clockwise. Continue alternating the direction you press as you continue down the row.

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How to Machine Piece Hexagons

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How to Machine Piece Hexagons

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