Kryssa

I am taking a beginning quilting class next month and the supply list has the Shape Cut Plus listed as "optional." I looked online and found out it helps when cutting strips. Is this worth the $30 investment for a beginner class? Or do you think I should I just learn the basic way first?

They also list 6 1/2" square rotary ruler as optional. Do you think that it will be of great use on a first quilt? Or can I skip it?

charismah

I LOVE my shapecute...but I use alot of strips...teh 6.5 inch square I have no idea why you would need that?? I would invest in a 6 x 24 inch ruler...

mumtoliam

I have never used the shape cuts plus and don't know what they are. On the other hand, I have a 6.5" inch square ruler and use it all the time for squaring 6.5" inch blocks, when cutting smaller pieces eg. 2 7/8" squares. I use the larger 6x 24" ruler to cut strips and use the smaller one to cut into smaller squares, to easier to hold and manipulate when cutting. I suppose I could use the bigger ruler but prefer the smaller one.

meemersmom

I have two Shape Cut rulers (one in quarter inch, one in half inch increments), and I use them both! I make lots of strips for log cabins, etc., and 1 1/2" squares for postage stamp quilts, and this ruler really helps ensure accuracy, not to mention shortening up the time it takes. JoAnn's has them...buy it with a coupon and you can get it for half price. What will you be making? Have fun at your class!

craftiladi

Have fun on your class, keep us posted.

Vanessa I did a search for us [ I didn't know what they were either. }
http://store.quilting-warehouse.com/083347.html
I really would like to take a class that shows how to use rules.

Rose Marie

The basic is all you need to start. 6x12 and 6x24 is what I use the most.
I have a shape cut but have only used it once. If you do get one get the one that is long enough to cut a full width of fabric as it comes off the bolt. You can now get one that only cuts 2 1/2 inch widths.
I have collected many rulers over time with Joanns coupons.
Take your time and get them on sale.
6 1/2, 8 1/2 and 12 1/2 are great for squaring up sqs.
But the best ruler I have is the triangle square up ruler by Quilt in a Day. I use it for Half sq triangles to make sure they are perfect. HST's are the block you will make the most.

BellaBoo

I have found that when a class supply list has certain rulers on the supply list that it will be of benefit for me to have them. The class instructor has used every ruler and found that certain ones make the process easier and faster for the pattern being taught. You are paying for her knowledge so why dismiss it?
The Shape Cut is worth the money. I use it to square up blocks more then cutting. It's the best ruler for cutting large squares. If you have a WalMart that doesn't have the Shape Cut ask the craft dept. manager to order it. Mine was under $20. WalMart stocks June Taylor products at the Main warehouse. The local Walmart here now stocks all the June Taylor notions and Fiskars. The dept. manager didn't know she could order those items from the main warehouse. She admitted she never really looked at what was available to order.

Harmony

I think my Shape Cut is my very favorite tool! I use it on every single quilt I make. It makes cutting out quilts so much easier. GET ONE!!! You won't regret it!

Jim's Gem

I use my Shape cut for pretty much every quilt I make. I only have the 12" size one but use it all the time.

retrogirl02

I started with the 6.5 and think it's a good one when beginners are learning the process of cutting. Some students are not as coordinated in dealing with the length of the larger rulers and space may be limited in the classroom.

I still use my 6.5 and am glad I have it on hand, especially working with the mini blocks, 1/2 square triangles and Quilts For Kids 4 patch units...but I do not cut/use strips as often as others on the board.

OOOH----if you live near a JoAnns fabrics, they have an online coupon for half off that ends today. The other coupon available is for 40% until next Saturday. You can usually do a quick search online for current ones....they're perfect for supplies (and fabric for those of us who never have "enough") :lol: