Accuquilt HST die problem
#1
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Join Date: Jan 2018
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I am making a quilt that calls for lots of half square triangles that should have a cut finish of 4 1/2" and 4" for a finished size. They are to be used in conjunction with 4 1/2" cut size ( 4"finished size) squares which I have cut out using the accuquilt square die .
HOWEVER, the square die cuts an accurate 4 1/2" square but the HST die will not make a 4 1/2" triangle UNLESS you use a Very, very skimpy scant 1/4" seam. I am familiar with using scant 1/4" seams, but this requires a scant, scant 1/4" seam to make the block a 4 1/2" triangle that will line up properly with the square cut using the accuquilt die.
I can use the next size up HST die, and then square it up to the correct size needed, but then it really negates the need for using the Accuquilt, as it winds up taking even longer.
Have any of you had a similar experience with these dies?
HOWEVER, the square die cuts an accurate 4 1/2" square but the HST die will not make a 4 1/2" triangle UNLESS you use a Very, very skimpy scant 1/4" seam. I am familiar with using scant 1/4" seams, but this requires a scant, scant 1/4" seam to make the block a 4 1/2" triangle that will line up properly with the square cut using the accuquilt die.
I can use the next size up HST die, and then square it up to the correct size needed, but then it really negates the need for using the Accuquilt, as it winds up taking even longer.
Have any of you had a similar experience with these dies?
#2
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Join Date: Sep 2011
Posts: 2,666
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Most of the die cuts need scant seams with accuquilt dies. There is no predicting which ones will be a true 1/4". I'm glad your 4 1/2" square die cuts properly! As much as those dies cost, I hoped their seam allowance was accurate, but alas.... hit and miss.
#4
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Location: Southern USA
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Measure the blade distance from one to the other. If a true size then your fabric may be stretching while cutting. Any roller even a rotary blade will push the fabric forward a smidge. Try putting a piece of paper on top of the die and then the fabric. It worked for me. Be sure your fabric is going in the roller at a slight angle. Most of the new dies will be angled but some older ones are straight on the die and you have to angle the die.
#5
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A very very important detail is to place the fabric with the length of grain perpendicular to the label on the die. Then have the label facing your tummy when you cut. This keeps the fabric from stretching when being cut. I was having problems with the Crazy Quilt die and guess what?? I wasn't paying attention to the length and cross grain when I cut. Here is a page of tips on their site: https://www.accuquilt.com/media/refc...Tips-QQZ08.pdf
#6
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Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: Chula Vista CA
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I was watching the webinar this morning and Pam Heller is adamant that all the dies are set for a full 1/4 inch seam. It you do not cut on the straight of grain, it can cause your fabric to stretch and it snaps back when cut. Also, if you use a mat too big for the die or even what you are cutting can cause a bad cut because the larger mat can move the fabric. The only time you don't use the straight of grain is with the strip dies.
I had problems cutting my hexagons until I started watching their videos.
If you are on Facebook they have some great videos. Every Wednesday at noon Central time they broadcast live on Facebook wth a new thing.
Just FYI - I do not work for Accuquilt or have any vested interest. I am just a huge fan.
I had problems cutting my hexagons until I started watching their videos.
If you are on Facebook they have some great videos. Every Wednesday at noon Central time they broadcast live on Facebook wth a new thing.
Just FYI - I do not work for Accuquilt or have any vested interest. I am just a huge fan.
#8
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Join Date: May 2017
Location: Sunny Florida
Posts: 4,429
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Good tips in the above posts.
What is the measurement on the die from the dog ear point out to the edge? 1/4 inch or less? Be sure you are placing enough fabric over the die blade edge. I miss sometimes and have short cuts on pieces.
It's a good idea to check the dies when you get them. They can be returned or exchanged if there is any issue. I have always sewn with 1/4 inch seam on all pieces. Fabrics are starched and pressed before using. Hope that helps!
What is the measurement on the die from the dog ear point out to the edge? 1/4 inch or less? Be sure you are placing enough fabric over the die blade edge. I miss sometimes and have short cuts on pieces.
It's a good idea to check the dies when you get them. They can be returned or exchanged if there is any issue. I have always sewn with 1/4 inch seam on all pieces. Fabrics are starched and pressed before using. Hope that helps!
#10
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Join Date: Sep 2011
Posts: 2,666
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A very very important detail is to place the fabric with the length of grain perpendicular to the label on the die. Then have the label facing your tummy when you cut. This keeps the fabric from stretching when being cut. I was having problems with the Crazy Quilt die and guess what?? I wasn't paying attention to the length and cross grain when I cut. Here is a page of tips on their site: https://www.accuquilt.com/media/refc...Tips-QQZ08.pdf