Cutting 12.5 x 12.5 squares
 

I am a little unsure of how to cut the big squares. I have a 15 inch square ruler. Can I just move the ruler over to cut the 12.5x12.5 inch squares or should I get a 12.5 ruler? Another thing the instructions say to cut one 12.5x12.5 square and 8 3.5 inch squares from a fat quarter. Which should I cut first or does it matter? Sorry if these are dumb questions but I'm new to all of this.
Lee Ann

Yes of course you can use the 15 inch square ruler.

Don't think it matters about the cutting order but I usuaally cut the biggest first.

Your 15 inch ruler will work great. if you need a quick reminder where the 12 1/2 inch mark is, use a piece of painters tape on top of you ruler for quick reference. I would lay my 12 1/ inch (or 15 inch) ruler on the fat quarter than decide which way to cut the rest. Than make my first cut.

You can use the following graphic to cut a 12.5" block from a larger piece of fabric.
The graphic is designed to use for trimming a sewn block, but you can use it almost the same way for cutting a block.

Jan in VA

I actually use the lines on my cutting board. (I've heard you're not supposed to do that, but my mat and my ruler agree, so that's how I do it) I would cut a 12.5" strip (12.5"x18) and two 3.5" strips (3.5x18), from the 18" side. Then cut a 12.5" square from the 12.5" strip and four 3.5" squares from each 3.5" strip. That's how I would do it. :o) Ann

There is never a dumb question when it comes to quilting. If one is new at quilting, only asking questions will give you an advantage over trial & error. Everyone here is willing to help with whatever questions you need. At one time or another, everyone here has been where you are at. It is best to learn by asking rather by mistake.

You must be making something with cathedral windows. I had a heck of a time cutting the big squares for the pillow I made using the rulers I had at the time.

ALWAYS cut the largest piece first. If you cut the small ones first, and don't think about where the largest will fit, you WILL NOT have enough room left to cut the large one (ask me how I know this..... :( )

Definitely use your 15" ruler to cut your 12.5" square first and then cut your remaining pieces. Always best to cut largest first; then next larger, etc. And as long as your ruler is larger than the piece you want/need to cut - it will work!

I have both Rulers.. each come in handy however as Jan in VA demonstrated the 15in will work fine... i do recommend marking the 12.5 line as a reference just in case.. theres been times when not thinking I used the wrong line..