I need to improve my cutting!
04-06-2017, 05:03 PM
#31
Senior Member
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: Minnesota
Posts: 546
Unlike most quilters, I normally use the mat to measure. Never use both for measuring. Only one or the other.
The keys for me are holding the blade vertical, a firm hand on the ruler, and the carpenters saying "Measure Twice, Cute Once". And trust that you will get better.
Happy quilting.
The keys for me are holding the blade vertical, a firm hand on the ruler, and the carpenters saying "Measure Twice, Cute Once". And trust that you will get better.
Happy quilting.
04-07-2017, 01:58 AM
#32
Super Member
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: North Florida
Posts: 2,156
Originally Posted by stilllearning
If possible, don't cut through too many layers. My cuts are more accurate when I don't cut through more than 4 layers, preferably only 2 layers. I'm waiting until I master the accuracy aspect before I worry about being more efficient or fast. If all the layers aren't folded perfectly, the folded areas will come out wonky. Measuring with the ruler instead of the mat seems to work better for me. Also, I've had better cutting results when I starch the fabric during ironing, especially since I pre-wash.
04-07-2017, 04:30 AM
#33
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2011
Posts: 568
Originally Posted by Boston1954
The lady at Missouri Star suggested putting painters tape on the ruler. It helps you remember where you were cutting.
04-07-2017, 04:43 AM
#34
Senior Member
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Florida
Posts: 745
I understand about the cutting process because I'm not very experienced with it at all - but I did find with practice it does get better - at least I noticed some improvement for myself. Also, the idea of the clear rubber sticky dots, sounds good, however, you can also use round sticky dots that look like they have sand paper finish - it helps the ruler from slipping. Don't hesitate to use quite a few on your ruler 
04-07-2017, 05:12 AM
#36
Power Poster
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: Corpus Christi, Tx.
Posts: 16,105
04-07-2017, 01:45 PM
#38
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2011
Location: JAX
Posts: 673
If your ruler moves when you are using it, try applying a clear nonslip sheet to the back. For me, it has made a major difference. It doesn't entirely eliminate slippage, but it reduces it. Not sure of the brand name, but your LQS should have it. It's transparent, inexpensive and one roll covers several rulers.
04-07-2017, 01:53 PM
#39
Super Member
Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Possum Trot, KY
Posts: 3,843
y'all might think it's silly, but I put a large can of peaches on the far end of my ruler so it doesn't slide. I can't hold the entire ruler at once (even for 15" or so), so I found the extra weight on the end helps. By the way, you can use other fruits .... it doesn't have to be just peaches .
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02-17-2012 05:27 PM
