Quilting can be more fun if we can simply stitch pieces together. But for some of us, squaring up quilting blocks can be a challenge. For most quilters, this is their least favourite part.
There are different sizes of rulers available in the market. But not every ruler is perfect for our work. Sometimes, the quilting block size varies greatly, and we cannot find the right size ruler.
Our quilting block is often bigger than the size of the ruler. There is also a good chance that we cannot have that size of a ruler. In order to solve this, we need to find a way to measure our quilting block, or the quilt will spoil.
So today we will help you in this regard. We will show you how you can use the traditional way of squaring quilt blocks. We will also look at helpful techniques and tools for squaring quilt blocks.
Let’s start. Prepare your ruler—time for some serious quilting.
What is a Square up Ruler?
Square up rulers are used to create square blocks in quilting. As the name suggests, these rulers are square-shaped. In quilting, we require these rulers to create perfect square shape blocks.
It would help if you started your quilting work. You can always buy more according to your needs and requirements. Most quilters have already got multiple size square rulers for their work.
If your project needs a 9″ quilt block, then you should buy a 9.5″ square ruler. If you are not sure about the ruler size, you can go for a 9.5″ square block. It is always possible to create small blocks using a giant square ruler.
We would suggest that you always buy the same size square ruler according to your block size.
An excellent square ruler always has a diagonal line that goes through the centre of the ruler. These diagonal lines help you during the quilting process.
Need a Square up a Nuler in Quilting?
So what does Squaring up a quilt means?
It means that all your corners are cut square at a 90° angle, and all your edges are cut straight.
This will make sure that your binding is attached much easier. When your quilt is laid out on a bed or folded neatly, it will look professionally made.
When experienced quilters piece their block together, they square it up. Their block will look like a perfect square. Keeping your blocks square has many more advantages also.
It will help your overall quilt top to be neat and straight throughout the quilt making process.
So now, we have seen the need for square blocks in the quilting process. We should always use the same size ruler with the same size block. Or, if you are not sure, purchase a slightly bigger square ruler.
Helpful Tools For Squaring up Quilt Blocks
To square up a quilt block, you need certain supplies and tools. The squaring up process is not that easy. We need some patience and practice before creating a perfect square quilt.
So, let’s look at the supplies and tools needed for squaring up a quilt.
- A completely quilted quilt sandwich.
- Rotary Cutter
- Cutting Mat
- Square Ruler(for corners)
- A long Ruler
- A washable water marker(To mark clothes)
A highlighter ruler is another popular choice for quilters. It can measure blocks while you are sewing. The highlighters are usually long and thin, with some marking at the end.
And lastly, there’s the trusty old pencil and paper that we all know how to use. They’re not fancy or newfangled, but sometimes simple is best! They can easily mark points over your quilt.
How to Square up a Quilt Block?
Now the fun part starts. We have got all the supplies and tools with us. It’s time to start the square up process of our quilt. You should know that there are many methods to do the same.
Here we are going to look at the easiest and most convenient method. We need to follow these steps to square up the quilt block.
Let’s start.
Step 1- Cut The first corner
Lay your quilt on the table or floor. Make sure that you stretch it correctly, and wrinkles are on it. You should have enough space available for cutting purposes.
Now place your square ruler on your first corner and line it up. Make sure that your fabric coincides with the 90-degree angle.
Now start cutting the corner in the vertical direction. Make sure that you are following the straight vertical line to cut. You don’t want to make a mistake here of your quilt block shape will suffer.
Step 2- Cut The Horizontal edge.
Now it’s time to use a long ruler. The long ruler’s ideal size can be approx 24″ long. Now overlap the part of the line you already cut and line up your ruler. Start cutting the edge slowly. Make sure that ruler doesn’t slip.
Continue cutting along the entire edge until you reach your next corner.
Step 3- Cut The second corner
Like before, overlap your square ruler over the line you already cut with a long ruler.
Now line up the edge of your square ruler with the vertical edge of your quilt top.
Cut a 90-degree angle on the second corner.
Now rotate your quilt so the next edge is closer to you. Repeat the above steps until you have trimmed all the corners and edges.
Step 4- Bind the quilt
You can easily bind your quilt with all your corners at perfect 90 degrees and edges straight. It should be easy for you now.
As you can see, these straps are pretty straightforward. You need to have some patience, and you are good to go. Make sure that your ruler is intact correctly or will slip away.
There is another method also to do the same. But if you want to keep it easy, then follow these steps.
Conclusion
Now we have seen all the procedures of squaring up the quilt. The process is not tough at all. But it would help if you had some practice as hands can be a bit shaky while cutting edges. Just make sure that your hands are firm while you are cutting corners.
You should also purchase multiple sizes of square rulers. Quilting blocks can be of different sizes; you need to make sure that you have enough rulers with you. You can also use a large size ruler for small size blocks.
If you are still unsure, you should practice first on other fabrics before moving towards the quilting block.
I hope you like the information provided here. Happy quilting.
