MaryJo47

I have a question on the proper way to square up a completed quilt piece. Do you take the extra amount off of one side of the block, or do u have to square up all 4 sides. Hope you guys understand this.

Thanks in advance,
Mary Jo

Tartan

It depends on the pattern. If I cut and sew accurately then I have little to trim. I make sure that I still have my 1/4 seam allowance all around theblck without cutting off points in my block after sewing them together.

Mimi Sews

Hi Mary Jo, here is a link to a tutorial that you may find helpful: http://www.craftsy.com/blog/2014/11/...a-quilt-block/

DOTTYMO

Welcome to the site.

Jane Quilter

welcome from virginia

NJ Quilter

Depending on the unit being sewn, I may trim all four sides. With half square triangles (HST) for example, I usually cut my pieces oversize a bit (typical measurement for the beginning squares is a 7/8" measure and I up to the next whole inch). When I get the HST all pieced (after cutting and sewing), I measure from the middle seam to the outside edge and trim as necessary on all 4 sides. I also make sure I press each seam and element of the block as I go along as well.

One thing that may help with cutting accuracy is to place a small piece of colored tape on whichever measurement you are using at the time. This way you know each cut if you are using the left/right/center mark of the line. I don't do this but I should as my cutting is sometimes a little off. Most times it doesn't matter that much - other times it does!

ManiacQuilter2

I am one for over-sizing my blocks (when possible) and then trimming them down to get an accurate quilt. I would first fine out where the problem is. Was the border not accurately cut or were some of your blocks different sizes. I wouldn't worry about the quilt being square. Can you post a photo or give us the dimensions??

toverly

Sometimes squaring up is simply squirting it down with water and stretching it to square up like needlework. I have a tile floor that I use, I square it up and use masking tape to tape it down, squirt it with water and let it dry. I know its dry when the cat sleeps on it.

lynnie

Welcome from Long Island, NY, I center the block, then trim off the rest.

Kitsie

I measure out from the center on a 4 sides.