I tried measuring each edge of the octogon and I couldn't get it to come out right. THis is a lot easier to do and the good thing is , you make it larger or smaller. I have a Santa done and I just have to quilt it and such. Now I gotta go find that fabric I have that has poinsetias on it and make another one. THanks for all you've done, Huiggies, Fay