Hello,
I am needing help with the measurments to do a 4 H block as as 12.5 inch block.

I keep making them the wrong size and can't figure out how to make the middle all the same size squares.

Do I make the 2 long pieces 12.5 by 4.5 inch? Then the 3 middle squares should be?

The 2 pictures are a small version of a 4 H block that I made but want to do them as a 12.5 inch block.

Thanks for the help!

The middle ones should be 4.5 to make a final 12.5 block... 4.5 x 4.5

All three squares in the center should 4 1/2" squares. Your are right the two long strips are 12 1/2" x 4 1/2".

I do use a 1/4 inch seam foot on my machine. Will I need to cut of extra from each side in the end though? I was making the top and bottom 12.5 by 4.5 and the middle squareas all 4.5 by 4.5 but It seamed like I always had to cut it somewhere for it to line up and then it was not a 12.5 inch block.

You might need to check your 1/4 inch foot. They help but are a little deceptive. You loose a little bit in the pressing of your seams.

There are a lot of ways to check your foot and adjust your machine. Try cutting two 1.25 strips x at least 2 inches(length is up to you really). Sew them together on the long sides. Press open and measure the width. You should get something that is 2 inches x whatever your length was. If it isn't, start moving your needle to the right one "click" at a time and repeat until you get your 2 inch width. You will then always know what your "setting" is for your 1/4 inch seam.

Also, be careful when you press your blocks. You can also stretch out your fabric that way. Don't use steam just hot cotton setting and press - don't iron. Are you using spray starch? That help the blocks keep their shape also.

Your blocks at the point you have pictures need to measure 12 1/2 inch square. This gives you the 1/4 inch needed on each side to sew the seams putting multiple blocks together.

All blocks prior to sewing into a quilt are 1/2 inch bigger all way around...... hence 12 1/2 inch UNFINISHED and 12 FINISHED is used.

Great blocks by the way!!!

My 1/4 inch foot was sewing 1/2 inch, yikes. I switched to my scant foot which has been sewing 1/4 inch. yay!

Can you move your needle position?

Nope not with the 1/4 inch foot it will run into the foot. I can move it on the scant foot though.