Irregular Hexagon vs Isosceles Triangle EPP: Choosing Shapes
By Paper Pieces for English Paper Piecing | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: Comparisons
Compare irregular elongated hexagon and isosceles triangle EPP templates to match your project's angles, seams, and pack sizes.
Quick answer
Choose the irregular elongated hexagon when you want elongated, interlocking shapes with fewer seams; choose the isosceles triangle when you need sharp angles and dynamic, geometric layouts.
Shape geometry and design impact
The irregular elongated hexagon (1-1/2" x 2-5/8") stretches your design horizontally, creating a flowing, almost organic look. Its six sides offer more joining points, which can produce intricate star-like patterns when combined with other shapes.
The isosceles triangle (2-1/4" x 1-1/2") is all about sharp, crisp angles. Triangles are incredibly versatile for creating diamonds, zigzags, and bold geometric motifs. They also allow you to build larger shapes, like hexagons, by grouping several triangles together.
Seam options and their trade-offs
Both shapes are available with 1/4" seam, 3/8" seam, 1/4" windowed, 3/8" windowed, and no seam options. The seam allowance you choose affects how much fabric is folded over the paper and how bulky your seams become.
A 1/4" seam is standard for most EPP projects, offering a good balance of fabric hold and seam thickness. A 3/8" seam gives you extra fabric to work with, which can be helpful for beginners or when using thicker fabrics, but it adds bulk. Windowed templates (with a hole in the center) let you see your fabric placement, which is ideal for fussy cutting, but they are slightly less rigid.
For the triangle, the 1/4" seam is a safe starting point. For the elongated hexagon, consider a 3/8" seam if you plan to use heavy fabrics, as the longer edges benefit from extra fabric for a secure fold.
How to choose between the two shapes
- Project scale: If you're making a large quilt or a repetitive pattern, the isosceles triangle's bulk pack (1188 pieces) offers better value. For a single block or a small project, the elongated hexagon's small pack (22 pieces) is enough to test the waters. Match the pack size to your project's scale to avoid waste.
- Design complexity: Triangles allow you to build many geometric patterns, but they require more pieces to cover the same area, meaning more seams and more time. The elongated hexagon covers more area per piece, reducing the number of seams and speeding up your piecing. If you want a quicker project, choose the hexagon; if you want intricate detail, choose the triangle.
- Fabric visibility: If you're fussy cutting or want to showcase specific fabric motifs, choose the windowed version of either shape. The window lets you see exactly what part of the fabric will be visible in the finished piece. Windowed templates are a must for fussy cutting; use them for both shapes.
Product facts at a glance
- 2-1/4" x 1-1/2" Isosceles Triangle: This is a 2-1/4" x 1-1/2" isosceles triangle from Paper Pieces, available in pack sizes of 99, 594, or 1188 pieces. The large pack options make it economical for projects that need many repeated triangles, such as full quilts or large wall hangings.
2-1/4" x 1-1/2" Isosceles Triangle - 1-1/2" x 2-5/8" Irregular Elongated Hexagon: This is a 1-1/2" x 2-5/8" irregular elongated hexagon, offered in pack sizes including a small pack of 22 pieces. The smaller pack is perfect for testing the shape or for small projects like coasters, while the elongated form adds a unique twist to traditional hexagon patterns.
1-1/2" x 2-5/8" Irregular Elongated Hexagon
Which shape fits your project?
Best for
- Quilters who want a modern, elongated look with fewer seams
- Beginners who want larger pieces that are easier to handle
- Projects that need to cover a large area quickly
Not for
- Projects that require sharp, angular designs or intricate geometric patterns
- Quilters who prefer the traditional hexagon look and are not ready for irregular shapes
