When making something for myself or my own design, I don't worry much about this stuff. However, I'm making some D9Ps for the batik block exchange, and have cut out 6 blocks. Made the first one and it came out exactly 12", not the 12 1/2" I need. The pattern, which came from Quiltmaker magazine, said it was a 12" block, but I assumed that meant actually 12.5. Since it's going in the swap, which has to be perfect, I'm going to have to refigure it all. These tips might help. Sure is frustrating. Oh, and I have a Janome 9000, use the 1/4" foot, but never knew if I can move the needle to make it smaller. Does anyone have that machine who can tell me?