Thank you all for the suggestions. I used a scant 1/4" and I now have perfect 3 1/2" strips. I did not realize that thread does take up room. I am using 100 % cotton.
Now working on matching seams. I have made a couple of blocks. Paying close attention to stitching, pressing ( don't want to distort those stitches) , and matching seams. I find it relaxing and fun. I will admit, I hope the next one comes out a bit better. This one is for me so a few mishaps are going to happen and I shall learn. Patience is something else I am working on. Plus pressing seams to the proper square so the sewing machine doesn't have a fit. lol. So much to learn. I wish our local craft store had quilting lessons at a more convenient time. I would go. It would be worth the money and oh the knowledge. But, I shall learn. I will succeed. Right now I am just having fun.