How to Make Quilting Templates That Fit

Make your own quilting templates to create a variety of quilted projects.

Accurate measurements and working with the right supplies generally paves the way for a successful quilting project. Making quilting templates that fit within the desired patterns usually guarantees success. Inaccurate templates produce poor fitting or uneven quilting pieces for project types, such as patchwork or appliqué quilts. Although quilting enthusiasts often invest in made-to-order acrylic or metal templates from quilting services, you can save a few dollars by making a quilt template on heavy cardboard.

Things You'll Need

• Flexible tape measure
• Yardstick
• Clear graph ruler
• Cardboard
• Felt pen
• Rotary cutter
• Self-healing cutting mat

Instructions

1. Measure the width and length of the project with a flexible tape measure or yardstick. For example, if you are making a patchwork quilt for a queen- or full-size bed, you most likely have a dimension of 92-by-105 inches.

2. Divide the quilting block dimension evenly into the project's specifications. Quilting blocks refer to square shapes used within a patchwork as well as other shapes, such as rectangles. For instance, if you are making a quilted blanket measuring 45-by-72 inches, you can make a quilting template measuring 9 inches. Divide the blanket dimensions by 9 inches to create an even five squares across the blanket and eight squares from top to bottom.

3. Add a ¼-inch seam allowance around the entire quilting block template. Use a clear graph ruler to draw accurate seam allowance lines. This step prevents uneven quilting block edges and avoids poor fitting quilted sections.

4. Draw the template dimensions on heavyweight, sturdy cardboard with a felt pen using the clear graph ruler.

5. Cut out the cardboard template with a rotary cutter on a self-healing cutting mat. Do not interchange the template cutter with fabric, which generally produces a blunt blade, leading to inaccurate templates. Repeat Steps 1 though 5 for each quilting block shape needed according to your design.

References

• Quilting 101: Templates
• "Patchwork for Beginners"; Sue Prichard; 2010
• "Complete Guide to Quilting"; Better Homes & Gardens; 2003