why do I always pick the impossible
 

I was starting to question my own abilities here. Downloaded a pattern from a quilt magazine for this zebra quilt, the pieces aren't fitting together at all. Sat down and really gave it some thought - take three 2" strips and sew together. check. sew those to the side of a 5" square... 2+2+2=6 minus 1/2" for seams still equals 5.5 inches and that is supposed to fit on a 5" square. What the heck?

Many patterns have mistakes! Way too many! However in looking at your measurements, you need to subtract 1" from the 6". The middle 2" strip loses 1/2" (1/4" on each side) and the other 2 strips each lose 1/4" on one side eac which equals 1" all together. This comes out to 5".

if you visit the magazine's site and that pattern- there is a *help/hints/tips & corrections* place... the center 2" strip will measure 1 1/2" after adding the strips to each side of it- they will measure 1 3/4"
1 3/4" x 2 = 3 1/2"
3 1/2" + 1 1/2" = 5"

Yes, the 3 strips together should measure 5". Now is the perfect time to double check your 1/4" seam! Take one of your completed blocks. Using the same ruler you used to cut the strips, measure the middle one. Should measure exactly 1.5". If it is less than that, your seams are too wide. If it's more than 1.5", then it's too narrow. You should also make sure you are cutting accurately and that you are not pressing a tiny crease in the seam when you iron your block.

hmmmm. it IS me. darn it.