Fudging/compensating/adapting/ignoring the pattern
 

One of the advantages to having some experience with almost any hobby is knowing when something 'really matters' - and when 'oh, well' - will do

One place I've learned where 'to ignore the pattern'

Sash and border lengths - wait until the center is sewn before cutting them. I've seen patterns that say something like: cut border strips 3 x 60-5/8 inches - I've learned that it is a good idea to set aside that fabric - but I would set aside 65 inches for the length - and I would measure what the center of MY project was before cutting anything.

When a pattern says to cut strips WOF(width of fabric) - I prefer to make the first cuts LOF (length of fabric) - and I've learned how to compensate for the yardage given for WOF

Rail fence units can be trimmed to all the same size - so can four patch units - and pinwheel units

I've also learned that in some cases - accuracy and/or consistency in making the units really does matter -

Fudging/compensating/adapting/ignoring the pattern---------hey, that's my middle name!

I'm with you on the borders - never cut them ahead of time, because depending on your 1/4" seams they may not be the length they're supposed to be.

I don't cut borders until I get to them either, especially if I'm piecing outside borders, I wait to insert the inside borders until the pieced borders are completed so I can ensure they are a perfect fit.

Great advice, bearisgray. BTW, I love your ID.

Yay, Bearisgray!!
I hereby announce "FudCAI" as a true and accepted acronym for the Quilting Board!! :thumbup:

Jan in VA
(fudging/compensating/adapting/ignoring)

fud-com-ad-ig-the-pat

Sounds kind of naughty!
Might be kind of long-winded thing to say when things are going badly!?

The most important lesson we all eventually learn about quilting or any kind of sewing is that fabric is not a stable medium. Precutting everything before you start to sew is often a "BIG" mistake. Everyone's definition of 1/4 inch varies. Something always goes wrong. I always purchase more fabric than I need. Don't expect perfection. Be happy if it is completed in a reasonable amount of time with no glaring mistakes.

What Pattern???LOL

I do think that if my patterns could talk their favorite term would be "recalculating" just like my Garmin. I want to know the end destination and which direction it is, I do not want someone directing every step.