Simple question about using precuts

[cathym]

Do you trim the pinked edges if you are using part precut charm packs and part 5" squares you've cut yourself? Do you trim each square or just trim the blocks after stitched together?

I've typically cut my own, so am used to having the squares a bit more even. I'm doing the disappearing 9 patch and cut some of the black squares and all the batik squares myself, but thought it would be quick to use a black charm pack to finish. However, they are slightly larger than my squares due to pinked edges.

[BellasQuilts]

Re: Simple question about using precuts

No, I just use the "ditches" as my guide.

[Suzette]

Re: Simple question about using precuts

No, I don't automatically cut the pinked edges either. I DO measure those precuts though because they are often not exactly 5 inches square and each square can vary in size within the pack. If they are larger than 5 inches, then I will trim them to size.

[RoseMA]

Re: Simple question about using precuts

No, I don't automatically cut the pinked edges either. I DO measure those precuts though because they are often not exactly 5 inches square and each square can vary in size within the pack. If they are larger than 5 inches, then I will trim them to size.

I found out the hard way that they are not always cut quite right. But my cutting skills are still in the beginner stage too so I double check everything! lol I have found jelly roll strips that are 2.75" which I've had to trim down and charms that are 4.9" so I just make due the best I can. Not that I've made much, but I do enjoy just looking at my fabric & dreaming.
I think I'm addicted!

[Quiltfreestyle]

Re: Simple question about using precuts

Hi Cathy
You did a great job on the DP4. Can't wait to see your DP9. Why don't you try matching the charms you cut to the ones you bought. So far, it's been my experience that you can match them up & use your cut patch to get the 1/4 seam right.
It doesn't bother me then or mess up the piecing if the pinked square is a tad off.
Good luck.

[JCY]

Re: Simple question about using precuts

I thought someone stated the tips of the pinked edges on the charms equals the 5". Not all charms are cut the same. I measure & square up every single one for accuracy. I've had to trim some, as they were maybe 1/8" too big. I measure all pre-cuts for accuracy. JCY

[cathym]

Re: Simple question about using precuts

Thanks for responses. I'm going to finish up a quilt using the exchange blocks plus some. It was the quarter inch seam that worried me, so I followed the batik patches as suggested, matched the seam for the 4 patch and and am going to square up the 4 patch before I cut them. I did notice they charm pack squares aren't all 5" but hope the blocks will square up OK. I'd be reluctant to use them for something requiring real precision piecing, I think. they sure are handy for this though.

BTW, quiltfreestyle, I meant to say D4P. : ) I'm going to finish up a top using the squares from the exchange plus some. I'm glad you thought the blocks were OK. I really struggled with the last set of blocks for the exchange. I had trouble intermittently with the tension and the feed dogs/feet weren't aligning on my machine. I took it for service last week and it's like a new machine. : )