Problems With Free Patterns
 

Perhaps it shouldn't bother me, considering they're free patterns, but it does. I just paper pieced a block that was a free pattern, but the pattern stated that it was for a 10.5" block, and I got a 7.5" block. At first, I assumed my printer had messed up, but when I went to measure the 1" sample square included in the pattern, it was exactly 1". Does anyone else have these problems?

I have not had this problem, maybe you should send a message to whomever you got the pattern from & see if you missed something. I have found sometimes a pattern will say to enlarge by some percentage because the parts don't fit on a regular size page- maybe you missed that

I haven't had any problem with free patterns but even the patterns in quilting magazines have numerous mistakes.

I have found errors in patterns, free, magazines, and books. Very irritating, Some have been very easy to spot. I always try to read all instructions before cutting.

I just recently had my first experience with an error in a free pattern. I notice that sometimes the free download patterns include a caution to check for corrections before beginning the pattern, but I've never understood where one would check. When I tried to look up this pattern again, I couldn't find it, so I wondered if they'd removed it from the internet because they realized the mistake. In this case, they'd said to cut 4 3/4" squares, and cut those diagonally both ways, but the resulting triangles were too small. The 4 3/4" was the size it needed to be finished, not before sewing. Luckily I had enough fabric to cut more triangles.

Also with any pattern free or otherwise, cut one block of each block type and check for size and proper cutting instructions. Saves cutting fabric the wrong size. I would try to find the designer of the pattern to let them know there is a mistake. It helps the designers to change the pattern instructions. Luann

This is why I don't use patterns, never have. I get ideas, then I just plug in my own math and make it work! If it's too little, add some, if it's too big, cut some off! Like I said before, the quilt police would chew me up and spit me out! All that stuff gives me a headache anyway! I keep it fun.

Not everyone is able to do that.

Like some of us need written music - others can just play "by ear" -

I think it is like that with sewers - some just "can" without a pattern - some need a pattern and directions.

Oh I know, I have great admiration for some of the patterns ya'll do, I wouldn't touch most of those really intricate ones with a ten foot pole!

I've found that too recently. After I'd completed the block, it measured 13.5". From then on, I've checked at least 2 times. Then try to reduce on my scanner....