I have a pattern for the panel and it specified I needed to cut the panel to size. Being very new at quilting, I'm not sure how to cut the panel to size? What is the best way to size it up and cut it correctly? It'd be easy if the panel is squared and lined already but it's not.

Amy, i think it means to cut it with adding the 1/4" seam allowance on all sides...
and don't prewash it...then it will be really hard to get it square.
i love panels, but i get depressed trying to cut them evenly on all sides..

Try folding in the middle each way so that you cut hte same off each edge - assuming the design will allow for that

Hi and welcome to the board from Iowa.

i sure wish they'd print these panels straight!

Yeah, my experience with panels, exactly!! They never seem to be printed straight. One reason I avoid them.

You could try to wet it, block it and cut once it dries. I did that with a border print that was way off and it worked well. I've had thing so bad before that I had to use scissors to cut, rather than a rotary cutter.