How to Measure Star Quilts
Star quilts follow their name closely in that they are quilts with actual stars sewn on them. This design is commonly seen in country- or patriotic-themed quilts. The stars can be small and spread all over the quilt; they can also be large and take up much of the quilt. The stars can also have any number of points. Measuring a star quilt is a handy way to create a pattern from an existing quilt so that it can be replicated.
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Instructions
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Measure the perimeter of the entire quilt with a tape measure. A quilt is typically a square or rectangle, so you will only have to measure one length and one width of the quilt. The two remaining sides should be equal if the quilt was properly sewn and assembled.
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Measure the filler patches on the quilt. Beyond having stars, the quilt will have a variety of patches that make up the remaining parts that are not included in the star portion. These patches can be made of almost any shape. Simply follow basic rules of geometry in measuring each one. Measure one length and one width for each square or rectangular shape. Measure all three sides of a triangle, because none have to equal the other. Measure each triangle's angle with a protractor. All the angles should add up to 180 degrees. Measure the diameter of a circle by placing the tape measure across its widest point. Multiply the diameter by Pi (3.14) to find the circumference or perimeter of the circle.
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Measure each of the stars using square and triangle techniques. A star is typically made of a square in the center surrounded by triangles, with each point facing outward away from the square. Measure each side of the star's triangle by laying a tape measure along each side. If all the star's points are the same size, you will only need to measure one point. Measure angles with a protractor. Measure the center square of the triangle by taking the measurement of one side with a tape measure.
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