Fabric Cuts Part 3

Fabric Cuts Part 3

Today we’ll discuss how to calculate the number of squares you’ll need to make both traditional and rag quilts. To cut numerous squares in a short amount of time, be sure to read “Quick Cuts (Squares)” at the Creative Times Magazine website.

When you make a traditional quilt, you will piece your squares together using a ¼” seam allowance. Therefore, you will lose ½” from the size of each of square as you piece them together. For instance, if you piece 6 ½” squares together, you will count only 6” to help you determine the amount of squares you’ll need to complete your quilt. A 48” x 66” lap quilt would require 8 squares across by 11 rows down.

Most rag quilts are pieced together using a ½” seam allowance. You’ll lose 1” from the size of your squares because of this. For example, if you piece 6” squares together, you will count 5” to determine the amount of squares you’ll need to make your rag quilt. A 50” x 65” rag quilt would require 10 squares across by 13 rows down.

Due to possible sewing errors and shrinkage from washing & drying, you may want to add an additional row of squares across and down to be sure you get no less than the desired width and length you want for your quilt.