Originally Posted by GrammaO

Crafty bear, How do you square up a big piece of fabric that is too large for your table or your rulers. I've tried folding but that isn't working. I have trouble with my pieced block too, but I'm sure that is because I am not exact with every seam. I hate to keep trimming edges, the thing just keeps shrinking!

Originally Posted by Rosyhf

Some things can happen if...a piece is cut on the cross grain (it will stretch a bit..use a scan 1/4inch (two or three threads over). Cut precisely. Make sure the fabric is straight before cutting.

I know you have been taught to fold the fabric and cut accross the grain. For instance: lets take a log cabin. you cut accross the grain and you start sewing your strips together. Your block, if you notice is warped or not perfectly square. That is because the cross grain is weak. Now cut your stips on the lenght of grain. Your block will be perfectly square and will be the correct size.

Your borders should also be cut on the straight of grain. Before applying your borders, measure from the middle of you quilt from side to side and use that measurement.

For beginners, I recommend the four Books and rulers from Sharon Hultgren. Her rulers will cut perfect triangles, hex, diamonds. Any pattern you find, you can use her rulers to make sure that the patches are perfect.

Originally Posted by GrammaO

I have a way of doing quick binding that still looks good. Not as 'perfect' as hand stitching but I think it turns out pretty neat. I can try and describe it to you if you're interested. I'm sure it's not new and you might have already tried it and it doesn't work for you.

Originally Posted by Pamela Artman

I'm finding the double wedding ring quilt a challenge. I have been quilting for over 30 years and I have made drunkard's path before and had no problem. And the curved arcs are not a problem when sewing them to the little melon shape. But when sewing them to the big centers (putting four arcs around each center) I'm having a real problem where the two arcs meet. I've tried clipping the curves at this joint, but its still hard to get the three pieces to come together right and lay flat! It's taking me forever!!! I never want to make another one of these!!

Originally Posted by AtHomeSewing

For me, it is finishing.... ):

Originally Posted by Rosyhf

I don't hand bind and I like my bindings a bit wide. I cut a 4 to 4 /2 inch strip the lengh that I need. I fold and iron it in half. I then sew on side to the quilt. When I get to the corners, I lift up and do the miter and continue (For beginners, Elinore Burns is perfect for teaching you binding or get her cd). Once that is done. I eigher use the Mitchelle system with the clips and gizmo or just fold over and pin a bit and sew in the ditch.