cutting 2 strips to make unfinished 5" block ?
 

Making 4-patch blocks for baby quilt. Solid fab is cut at 5" blocks. ? is... how wide do I cut the 2 strips to make the 4patch. Love to quilt. Hate math.

If cut is 5", that will finish at 4.5"

Divide 5 by 2 = 2.5, plus .25 seam allowance, to cut 2.75" strips.

or maybe more confusing but depends on how your mind works.

Divide 4.5 by 2 = 2.25 + seam allowance (.5 which is .25 on each side) to cut 2.75" strips.

Yep. I agree.

That's what I thought. 2 points for my team if anyone is keeping score.

I agree that 2.75 is the width to cut your strips.

My mind would go like this:

I start with 5 inch blocks.

Two strips - 5 divided by 2 is 2.5. BUT - I need to add 1/4 inch to each strip to make up for the center seam .

Therefore - 2.5 + .25 +2.75 (2-1/2 + 1/4 = 2-3/4)

There is usually more than one way to get to a destination.

I cut paper before cutting fabric to be sure of the measurements. I fold the 1/4" over the ruler edge. Sometimes it's much easier to do than to think too much about it.

Onebyone, thank you for putting that suggestion in here! I need to start doing mine that way! Sure will solve a LOT of mistakes I've made in my figuring! Thanks again for that suggestion! :)

A pad of graph paper is a wonderful thing to have. Easy to get now with back to school supplies out. Make sure it is "standard" that is 4 squares per inch (there are a couple other grid sizes). 1 square is a seam allowance.

The paper thing is a great hint. If I'm doing a bunch of cutting for a project, I do make a template from my graph paper (or the graphed acrylic sheets). You don't use it for cutting, but put down and place ruler on the edge.

I agree with the 2.75". I usually take some scrap fabric and make a sample to make sure my math is right.

The new Add a Quarter ruler with beveled edge is great for turning over the 1/4" inch. It's nice to find double duty use for this ruler. I use it a lot.