JackieQuilts

Hi Everyone,
LOVE this site, I have learned so much. Twin size quilt for my granddaughter. Backing has to be cut in two and then sewn together as it is not one big piece. How do I make sure the piece is square before cutting down the middle? Thanks so much. Jackie in Kansas

mike'sgirl

I would start with starching the piece really well. The way I square up fabric is is take the piece, holding both selvedges together, and then look at the fold. If it's not even, shift your fingers side to side to get the fold to hand evenly. When it's even all the way across, I lay it down on the ironing board and gently give it a crease. They I take the creased edge even with the other edge and do the same thing. Make sure the fold is even across and not wonky. You will know what I mean when you look at it. Then I iron another crease on that fold. I then make a cut with my rotary cutter to clean up one edge. Leah Day has a YouTube video on this so go watch her and you will understand better.
Good luck and I am sure others will be by to give you advice as well. Welcome to the board. Gina

ktbb

I think everyone has a different way of doing this - I don't worry about squaring up before putting the two sections together - I just cut in half lengthwise then stitch the sides together....and for a shortcut (if your print is not directional or if you want a directional print to go two different directions) I fold the long piece in half lengthwise (make it half as long and the same width) then stitch down one side = wide enough seam to cut off the selvedge and still have your quarter inch seam - then use scissors to cut on the fold or a rotary cutter to cut off just the very edge of the fold....voila - you have one big piece. The back will eventually get squared up after the sandwich is quilted. Just make sure that the ends are not cut too wonky and it works for me.

ManiacQuilter2

I usually cut off (or rip) the selvage off of the two side I will stitch together. Then just try to sew a very straight seam. Press and you are done. I never worry about any extra yardage because that can be easily trim off after the top has been quilted. Just make sure your back is at least 4" larger on all four sides of the back then the quilt top.

JackieQuilts

Thanks Ladies! Your suggestions are exactly what I needed. After 3 years of block of the month at my local quilt shop, it was time to actually put something together. Wish me luck. I'll post a finished picture one of these days.