Originally Posted by
Libster
The Churn Dash is essentially just a 9 patch block. For it to measure 12 1/2" unfinished, each unit should measure 4 1/2" square. Just make sure that your HSTs measure 4 1/2", your strip units should measure the same. When I make the HSTs, I'll cut my squares at 5 1/4" and trim to 4 1/2" after sewing on the diagonal, cutting apart and pressing. Using 1/4" seams, it's bound to come out the right size.
I have been having so much trouble with my blocks coming out the right size. I have been really careful with the cutting. Over sizing the triangle squares and trimming them to the perfect size. So, I did a test block today and found that even using my quarter inch foot (which has the edge guide)....I was still off. So, I knew the problem was in my quarter inch. So, I reset my machine to a different setting and measured each section I sewed to make sure it was a perfect quarter inch. And, finally, my blocks are coming out the right size. I found that my machine setting was off. So, this is my demo block and even though it doesn't look like it's perfect, I measured each point to make sure there was a quarter inch for piecing it together. I guess I should have done my homework sooner.
So, I think I will keep my tape measure by my machine for another block or two just to make sure I have it right.
I'm really not a stickler on points being perfect, honestly, I can live with "off a little" just fine. But, I don't want any of you to have to bare with it.