Doing larger blocks - do you need larger rulers?

[Judy, USMC]

Situation: Disappearing 9 patch using layer cake. After sewing the 9 patch together cutting is not a problem using the lines on a 24x36 mat and a 6x24 ruler I have.

Possible problem: After cutting the 9 patch into quarters the blocks would be 14 1/2 inches. The largest square ruler I have now is a 12 1/2 x 12 1/2. So to square the block should I just use the measurement lines on the mat or is it easier to get the huge 15 inch square ruler?

Would appreciate your opinions .....

[Vonnie]

Re: Doing larger blocks - do you need larger rulers?

The 15 1/2" square up ruler might be an option so if you go that way, go larger and get the 18 1/2" square up ruler - it's great for squaring up the corners of a quilt before putting the binding on.

That said, when I don't have a larger enough ruler, I use the two ruler method. I have a nice 3" X 18" ruler that I can place next to the 12 1/2" ruler. Takes more time but if you just don't want another ruler the two ruler method works.

[bubba]

Re: Doing larger blocks - do you need larger rulers?

You can also square it from the center seam. That is what I did with mine.

[Judy, USMC]

Re: Doing larger blocks - do you need larger rulers?

Thanks Vonnie & Bubba. Both are great suggestions!

[JCY]

Re: Doing larger blocks - do you need larger rulers?

I have both 15.5" and 16.5" square Creative Grids rulers. I used the 15.5" one for the D9P. I'll be using the 16.5" one soon with the Storm at Sea class I'm taking next mo. The blocks are 16". The "Turning Twenty...Again" patterns have 16" blocks as well. I use the 16.5" along with my 6.5 x 24" ruler for cutting fabric. They're both handy rulers to have. JCY

[Simply Quilting]

Re: Doing larger blocks - do you need larger rulers?

I bought the 15 1/2 x 15 1/2 specifically to do the D9P but have found that I use a lot as my go-to ruler. Just last night I used it when cutting just before binding. I used it to cut out my 11x11 blocks even though I have 12x12 ruler. For me, it was a good investment.

[kensington]

Re: Doing larger blocks - do you need larger rulers?

I've never used a "Square" ruler to square up blocks. I use the center of the block, my regular mat grid and my 5x
24 ruler. For smaller blocks I use a 4x14 ruler. No one told me I needed a square up ruler. LOL. The things you learn to do without tools you don't have. I actually never had any tools other than my rotary cutter, 6x24 ruler and my 18x24 mat until I discovered Jenny... now I have collected some of her templates, two QIAD rulers, a 6 inch square and the five & dime ruler. Just that lone mat and ruler for all the quilts I have made in 20 years!