Let's Share Our Favorite Cutting Tips

[MartinaG]

I only do a test block for new patterns. If I've made the block before, then I just forge ahead.
Most of the time I write out the plan step by step. That way I can concentrate on one step at a time and check it off when completed.
One thing I had to learn the hard way is to be VERY precise with my instructions. For example, I needed 80 HSTs for a project but instead of cutting 40 squares oversized to trim, I cut 80 squares for a total of 160 HSTs. (And then I wonder why I have scraps, huh?)

As for borders....I never can tell how big my top will be so I always measure borders specifically to fit.

[FabStripper]

I love to cut. I spray my fabric with starch before I start cutting and that keeps my fabric just like I cut it. I also cut for friends who some like plain and some like starch.

[jjkaiser]

I am the Queen of Start-overs. I should probably stick to kits only (but have never made one from a kit). I usually only cut enough for a sample block. Then I will cut out enough to make 2-3 more blocks. Then I usually change my mind about colors or prints (decide it's too dark or too busy or too something), make a couple more blocks--and then by the time I rethink it about the third time I won't let myself change my mind anymore, and then cut enough pieces out to do about half the quilt. This results in making 5-6 blocks that don't ever get used.

I would NOT recommend this method to anyone as it is very inefficient wasting time and money. I have sworn to stop this nonsense but I do it every time. Usually in the end I am very satisfied with the results, but I just can't seem to break the habit of starting over a few times. I am embarrassed to admit it. Hope I am not the only one who does this?

[Quiltfreestyle]

I have to admit i very seldom use pre cuts, so it's a good thing I don't mind the cutting process. I'm afraid I also must admit I don't bother to do test blocks,,, I just jump in & start cutting & sewing. I've never really had any serious problems using this method.
I don't decide about the borders until the main part is finished because my quilts have a tendency to grow when I'm not looking.
I just like to go with the flow & not get bogged down by too many rules.

[TamiLee]

First, I have to say I LOVE Pandabear's comments... But must add: to have a husband and car fueled up and accessible to take said cutter of fabric [wife] to ER when she cuts off the side/tip of her index finger....

I actually love cutting, and some days/nights when I don't feel like sewing, I will just go and "play" with fabrics; design a simple quilt or pull out a pattern, and just cut. A lot of these are for the charity, so will be passed on to one of the volunteers. I'm pretty visual, so can cut it all out at once. I don't see it until they've finished, and given it back to be quilted.

Sewing or "playing", I just love the entire process!!

[pcbatiks]

Never cut fabric with your rotary cutter when you are tired or frustrated.

It's impossible to accurately cut fabric when sitting down............learned that when 1st started quilting!

[quiltingaway]

first I cut for one block to see how it goes together. When home I will cut enough for several blocks, then sew a bit, cut a bit ..... If I'm going to a retreat I cut ahead of time because I'm distracted by talking, laughing, etc. I make fewer mistakes when I'm home alone.

[COsoaper]

I like to finish the cutting part then move on to sewing, usually without making a test block first. For my last quilt, each block consisted of only 7 pieces, but caused me such problems! Either I cut 77 pieces too short or the pattern measurement was wrong. Either way, I could have prevented a headache by first making a test block.

Lesson learned!

[Sylvia H]

I do not have one set process. I have not, in the past, made test blocks. I would like to do this in the future. Now, the question is, I remember to do this? As for cutting, it depends upon the size of the quilt and the types of blocks. For some, I will cut out everything, as I need everything before laying out the quilt top. If there are repetitive blocks in a larger quilt, I may cut some, piece some, and the cut and piece again. I do like to break up the tasks when I can.

A recent post on how to choose fabrics indicated that you should choose your border fabric first. I, like many others, have left this to be the last choice, as well as the backing. I hope to try this different method -again - will I remember to do so?

I have been quilting for 4 years, and have done various types of quilts, table runners, placemats and purses. Because of this, I don't think I have developed particular processes. The best I can offer is that, particularly if you are cutting small pieces or pieces against the grain, that starching the fabric before cutting is very helpful.

[Liberty]

Stripology ruler! Saves sooooo much time!