Fudging/compensating/adapting/ignoring the pattern
06-03-2013, 07:40 AM
#1
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Join Date: May 2008
Location: MN
Posts: 24,388
Fudging/compensating/adapting/ignoring the pattern
One of the advantages to having some experience with almost any hobby is knowing when something 'really matters' - and when 'oh, well' - will do
One place I've learned where 'to ignore the pattern'
Sash and border lengths - wait until the center is sewn before cutting them. I've seen patterns that say something like: cut border strips 3 x 60-5/8 inches - I've learned that it is a good idea to set aside that fabric - but I would set aside 65 inches for the length - and I would measure what the center of MY project was before cutting anything.
When a pattern says to cut strips WOF(width of fabric) - I prefer to make the first cuts LOF (length of fabric) - and I've learned how to compensate for the yardage given for WOF
Rail fence units can be trimmed to all the same size - so can four patch units - and pinwheel units
I've also learned that in some cases - accuracy and/or consistency in making the units really does matter -
One place I've learned where 'to ignore the pattern'
Sash and border lengths - wait until the center is sewn before cutting them. I've seen patterns that say something like: cut border strips 3 x 60-5/8 inches - I've learned that it is a good idea to set aside that fabric - but I would set aside 65 inches for the length - and I would measure what the center of MY project was before cutting anything.
When a pattern says to cut strips WOF(width of fabric) - I prefer to make the first cuts LOF (length of fabric) - and I've learned how to compensate for the yardage given for WOF
Rail fence units can be trimmed to all the same size - so can four patch units - and pinwheel units
I've also learned that in some cases - accuracy and/or consistency in making the units really does matter -
06-03-2013, 09:27 AM
#4
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: Las Vegas, NV
Posts: 926
I don't cut borders until I get to them either, especially if I'm piecing outside borders, I wait to insert the inside borders until the pieced borders are completed so I can ensure they are a perfect fit.
06-03-2013, 10:55 AM
#8
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2012
Posts: 381
The most important lesson we all eventually learn about quilting or any kind of sewing is that fabric is not a stable medium. Precutting everything before you start to sew is often a "BIG" mistake. Everyone's definition of 1/4 inch varies. Something always goes wrong. I always purchase more fabric than I need. Don't expect perfection. Be happy if it is completed in a reasonable amount of time with no glaring mistakes.
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