HAND STITCHING IN GOLD THREAD ADDS A LUXURIOUS FINISH TO THE DESIGN

PREPARING THE PINCUSHION

1

Using the 2in hexagon template, cut out a 2in hexagon from the batting. Put to one side until later.

2

Pin the 2in Hexagon templates and two Half Hexagon templates onto the linen background 10in square. Trim around each shape, leaving at least ¼in seam allowance. Baste in place, using your preferred method.

3

Pin the six Rectangle templates onto the selection of print fabric scraps. Trim around each rectangle, leaving at least ¼in seam allowance. Baste in place, using your preferred method.

PIECING THE BEE

4

Piece the bee as in steps 6–7 of the pouch instructions.

CONSTRUCTING THE PINCUSHION

5

Sew the rectangles to each side of the hexagon, placing right sides together and using a whipstitch to form the shape shown in Fig 3.

6

Remove the paper template from the hexagon. Place the batting on the wrong side of the hexagon, ensuring the edges lie flat under the seam allowances. Baste in place.

7

Remove the paper templates from the pieced bee and tack or pin onto the hexagon. Slip stitch around the edge of the bee to secure. Quilt as desired.

8

Sew the half hexagons in place as shown (Fig 4). Then begin to construct the 3D shape. Sew the short sides of adjacent rectangles together. Sew the remaining long edges to the sides of each half hexagon. Leave the longest edge of each half hexagon unsewn.

9

Remove the Rectangle templates, then carefully turn the pincushion right side out. Remove the Half Hexagon templates.

10

Ease out the corners and stuff the pincushion firmly. Close the gap in the bottom with a ladder stitch to finish.