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-   -   How many of you use cutting mat lines when cutting fabric? (https://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1/how-many-you-use-cutting-mat-lines-when-cutting-fabric-t92154.html)

auntlucy 01-21-2011 04:31 AM

I think that using the lines on the mat as a straight edge with your ruler to make that first straight edge on the left side of your piece of fabric (if you are right handed) is completely different from using the spaces between the lines on the mat as measuring units. The method I was taught in a quilt class was to use the lines on the mat to get your fat quarter, etc. aligned with the mat. Then line up the ruler with the mat line for that first cut only. From there it was ruler only to measure and cut the strips. This method requires that the ruler is placed on the piece being cut away from the whole. I agree with whomever pointed out that placing the ruler on the piece you are cutting prevents ruining the piece if your rotary cutter should veer away from the ruler.

grann of 6 01-21-2011 04:34 AM


Originally Posted by Granna of 5
I use to use the lines on my mat until I read on this board that they are not always accurate, so now I use my ruler.

I use the lines on the mat for squaring up, but use a dedicated ruler for the final cuts. Don't always trust the mat for the 1/4" markings.

SandyMac 01-21-2011 04:38 AM

I cut both ways it just depends on what I'm doing.

pieces 01-21-2011 04:48 AM

I use the lines on my mat when I am cutting strips.
But use a ruler when I cut my pieces from the strips.

Linda Loo 01-21-2011 05:30 AM

I've never had a "matching" ruler and mat! Therefore, the discrepancies between the two always made for chaos in putting anything together. I depend on my ruler. Never pay attention to the mat except to straighten something.

1barron 01-21-2011 05:34 AM

Out side of a cutting surface and doing a quick measure of fabric (that's what I use the mat for), I always use my rulers to cut.

thseabreze 01-21-2011 05:36 AM

I use both, the lines and a ruler

noveltyjunkie 01-21-2011 05:52 AM

I use the mat lines to make sure the corners are square, but I use the ruler to measure.

piepatch 01-21-2011 05:54 AM


Originally Posted by mom-6
Sometimes I will use the lines on the mat and sometimes I'll use only the lines on the ruler. If it is a measurement wider than my ruler that's the only way it can be done! For the ones that are within the ruler's width I usually don't bother with also lining it up with the lines on the mat.

I use my ruler.

champagnebubbles 01-21-2011 05:56 AM

I was taught to use my ruler, I try to do this.


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