Do I need another ruler? Beginner cutting help...
 

Hello everyone!

I've been quilting for a couple of years, mostly using pre-cut friendly patterns, and I am about to make...my first wedding quilt!:eek: It's a surprise for two of my oldest friends, using a cute HST design.

Now, I've got some fat quarters that I want to cut into 5" squares, but my largest ruler is 12" square. Is there a way that I can use this ruler to cut the squares efficiently, or do I need to get myself a nice long ruler so that I can easily cut 5" strips from the FQ and sub-divide them?

In the past I have cut 5" squares from yardage using my 12" ruler and the odd mistake (often at the corners), but as this is a special quilt with some slightly pricey fabric, I want to get it right first time.

Any advice? Is there a knack to using the ruler I already have for this, or do I need to bite the bullet and buy another?

Thank you!

Woodmouse

Fold the fabric in half and the cut the 5 inch width. Open the fold and you will have a strip to cut to size needed.

Be sure the "fold" of the fabric is straight. Then place the ruler so it straight on the fold. This will prevent a "V" notch in the strip of fabric after you cut.

I place that fold on a line on the cutting mat for reference to make sure it's straight.

Yes, do what Rhonda said and you will be fine. However, at some point in your quilting life you will likely go buy a longer ruler anyway (I love my 6x24 ruler). So, if you anticipate many more years of quilting and you have the money for the purchase, then go treat yourself to a new ruler!

Hi both,

Thank you very much for your answers. I can't believe I didn't think of folding the fabric! I will try out Rhonda's method on some of my ordinary stash. If I can't get the hang of it I will wait until next month and treat myself to that ruler. I reckon it counts as a housewarming present under the 'home-making' umbrella, right? :D

I think you would be surprised at how many of us have a multitude of rulers and many of them will do the same think. Counting rulers and templates I know that I have over 25. Anything that makes cutting easier and faster is my moto.

I would suggest a hst square up ruler. It will save you frustration and time.
There are several great ones. I personally like the Clearly Slotted Trimmers. Block Lock is another good one.
How to use them are on youtube and many quilt tutorial videos.

I can't tell you how many times I reach for my Bloc Loc rulers. They are fantastic for HST's (half square triangles)
I usually balk at buying a new ruler but those were a game changer for me. They give you an accurate block.

Oooh, I shall have to look into Bloc Loc! I got a 'HST ruler' free with a magazine that I haven't looked at yet - basically a ruler with a diagonal slot for you to draw your centre line. How do you all get a perfect centre line?

I came on to say THANK YOU for your tips and encouragement - I am now the proud owner of my first stack of 12 perfect 5" squares cut from a fat quarter.

I mostly use a 6x12" ruler for all my rotary cutting. Folding and cutting works great with a sharp blade. You will do just fine with what you have.