The reason I wanted it just 1-1/2 inches wide and 10 inches long was so it would fit nicely on the acrylic bed of my machine. Hopefully this picture will show you how it works. I put on my Machingers gloves for good grip and traction and because the ruler is narrow, I can have most of my hand on the quilt while still being able to hold the ruler. I just FMQ along it until I reach my thumb and then reposition my hands and ruler.