How to Cut a Quilt Square
A square is one of the most basic shapes found in quilts and forms the basis for several other shapes in the quilt. Cutting the pieces for a quilt is precision work because the appearance of the finished quilt depends on the uniformity of each piece, whether the squares are cut into triangles or used whole. It's not hard to cut perfect quilt squares, but it does require preparation and precision. One of the most important aspects of using symmetrical shapes in quilts is to verify that the fabric runs true to the grain, which means that the grain is straight.
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Instructions
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Prepare the Fabric
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Wash and dry the fabric if you are using new, 100-percent cotton or linen, which are prone to shrinking.
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Check the fabric for the straightness of the grain by cutting through the selvedge and tearing it across the width of the fabric. Lay the fabric back together with the selvedges matching, and check to see that both sides of the fabric match each other. Another approach to use if the fabric does not tear easily is to pull a thread toward you and compare the line it leaves behind with how parallel it is to the cut edge of the fabric.
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Straighten the grain of the fabric if the ends of the fabric are not parallel by pulling the fabric along the bias. Ask someone to take one end of the cloth while you hold the opposite end and tug. If you don't have a helper, tie one end to a door knob and tug on the opposite end. Lay the fabric back down and check the edges to verify that they meet each other.
Cut the Squares
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Make a template to cut the squares using lightweight cardboard or poster board. Use a straight-edge ruler to outline a perfect square with a pencil. Cut the square out with the scissors.
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Place the square on the fabric and hold it down with your right or left hand. Cut the square with the scissors.
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Measure the first squares cut to determine they are the same size from corner to corner. If they are, continue to cut the squares. If not, check your template. If it's not a true square, cut another one.
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References
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