Originally Posted by My 1st Bambina
Just posted a picture of my 1st block on the photo forum/page and stopped by to inquire about why could be the reason of my block being off by 1/4. My final measurement is of: 6 1/2 by 6 1/4. My templates are fine I triple checked them before cutting fabric.... I'm thinking it has to be maybe when I was sewing
them ??? This is my very 1st time machine piecing 8-). I welcome any constructive criticism and upbuilding advice :wink:
I like to be a little generous cutting my piece sizes (very little!) because the more pieces and therefore more stitching involved, the more the final block seems to shrink, so obviously the stitching lines are a factor. I am not too generous with my seam allowance width either, so I can't blame that. Also, FYI, your plastic 6-1/2" template center markings should line up with the block center, both vertically & horizontally; in other words, the center 2" square should be in dead center of the ruler as you look through it, with the ruler markings corresponding to your seam lines. Am I making myself clear? In your photo, I can see through the transparent template that your center block is not centered with the ruler. If it were, your block would be a little short both top & bottom, probably 1/8" each.