Needle Up

Am I the only one that makes a test block prior to starting on the actual fabric? I have made so many mistakes that I find if I mess up the scrap block and have to fix the mistake I have saved myself some greif.

quilt addict

I don't do it and there have been many times that I wished I had. I now more often will just cut out and do one block first before cutting out everything.

Cherylsea

It is a habit that I am trying to make! It saves so much grief!

merrylouw

This sounds like a REALLY good idea. Then we can make quilts from our "try-outs". Nothing wasted -- lots gained!

ckcowl

i do if it is something new- a new technique- something i'm just not sure about- those practice blocks come in handy later
you can use them for small projects (the front of a tote bag, a pot holder, something to practice a quilting design on) or make a sampler quilt out of them later- when i find i have many that i doubt i will use for anything i pass them on to someone else who will put them to use...practice blocks saves lots of good fabric- and frustration

amma

I do most of the time, it can save a LOT of trouble if you can work out any kinks before you cut into your quilt fabric.
I save these blocks for scrappy samplers

boxerlady

Yes, I would much rather practice with some scrap bits of fabrics. It gives you a chance to find any problems you might have.

GingerK

YES!!! I often get an idea and actually graph it out on paper, but am not sure that those measurements are accurate even tho I KNOW the graph paper is 1/4 inch squares. So out comes the cheapo broadcloth and I make a test block. Sometimes the block ends up being too cumbersome (too many parts so has to be broken down futher) and sometimes I just hate the process and scrap the whole idea. I KNOW that taking the time to try out a new or different sized design has saved me mega time and bucks in the long run!!

rusty quilter

Wish I had developed that habit!! I have screwed up many a block--in fabric that was precious. I am learning though--just not as fast as I would wish!

QuiltnNan

i don't. but so many times i wish i had. thanks for the reminder. i'm about to start another big one