[h=3]Squaring Up Quilt Blocks (Even If You Know How)[/h]
I am working on a new quilt and have gotten to the "squaring up" stage. This is a good block to demonstrate a few tips on. It will be trimmed to 11 1/2", sewn to 11" with a 1/4" seam allowance.
Tip #1:
Using painters tape, tape the corner and edges of your block size on your square ruler. I am using a 15" ruler and it has many, many lines. Taping off the size allows me to line up my block at a quick glance. Painters tape can easily be removed from your ruler without leaving residue.
Tip #2:
Turn your block to the diagonal before lining up your ruler.
On a block such as this Tavern Puzzle, it is important to line up the diagonal ruler line as well as the corners. Place the diagonal line on your block first, then line up the corners.
Turning your block to the diagonal position now allows you to cut 2 sides of the block at once. Trim.
Tip #3:
After your first side is cut, flip the block and simply line up the cut edges of your block to the green tape marks. This is so efficient. Now trim the remaining 2 sides of your block in one motion.