Hello
I have been accumulating lots of charm packs. I think I have enough for a good size quilt. My problem is that the pattern I want to create calls for 3 7/8 sq and strips.
Here is the pattern: http://quilterscache.com/A/AGaggleofPinwheelsBlock.html

Is there a good way to figure out how to do this with charm packs? I don't know much on calculating size things; I have generally been paper piecing which is easy peasy compared to trying to figure this stuff out!

Im no expert, but I'm thinking yardage would work better with that pattern. Using charm packs it looks like you might have a lot of waste cutting the squares down to size. But then again, I could be wrong, Im pretty new at this stuff too. There's lots of knowlegable people here tho, Im sure they will offer better info.

That's definitely not a charm pack pattern. Too much waste.

there is a good book out there called 'Nickle Quilts great designs from 5" scraps' by Pat Speth and Charlene Thode
it contains lots of wonderful quilts made from 5" squares.
they did not use charm packs-they were not everywhere when the book was written- but they do use 5" squares for every quilt.

some patterns really are not well suited to pre-cuts- you really have to do alot of math and through out the pattern make adjustments and re-design to make it work. if the instructions are using yardage (40+" wide fabric) and you are trying to cut your blocks from 5" squares- that takes alot of math...and alot of piecing that might be alot easier if strip piecing.

I agree that your choice of pattern will have a lot of waste if you start with charm squares.
If it is pinwheels you like, the Missouri Star Quilt Company has a tute on how to make pinwheels from charm packs. http://www.youtube.com/missouriquilt.../2/ekYpJzHoW6E
I made a block to try this technique. It was fun and the bias sides did not give me a problem.

gosh, you are all very quick! I had not heard of that book; maybe I live under a rock?
Will look for that one.
I have not heard also of Missouri Star. I clicked on that video link and was fascinated. Very spunky lady!
Okay, I will look for Nickel Quilts and maybe rethink my pattern choice.
Thanks!!!!!!!!!

Not good at calculations? Welcome to my world. LOL I rely on my quilt buddies to help me with the math.

I agree with the waste from the charms. You would only have a 1 1/8x5"" strip left from each charm. For the square you would have a 1 1/8"x5" strip and a 1 1/8x 1 7/8" piece. Too much to toss and too small to use elsewhere.

You can think about making the same pattern bigger...if you use the entire 5 inch charm square instead of 3 7/8 then your finished blocked will be just over 16 inches instead of 12 inches like the pattern states..so you will have a bigger quilt???

Thank you all for the responses.
Tellabella, If I do use the charm packs then I would just need fabric for the strips?