Squaring a quilt

[Barbara C.]

I would like some suggestions on squaring a quilt

[wendy w.]

Have you added the borders yet?

I've found that if you measure the side to side across the centre, of the quilt to get the lengths of the borders that helps to square it off.

If you me a n when it is finished I have been given lots of good advice for blocking. I'll try and find the thread for you

[Margo C.]

Here is some info you might find helpful: http://forum/i-need-quilting-related...e-your-secrets

[wendy w.]

Cheers Margo you must have a fantastic memory or special powers

[Margo C.]

:lol: None of them! I just used the "SEARCH" box at the top of the forum page!! Kinda like magic!

[wendy w.]

:lol:

[Barbara C.]

I have not added the borders

[wendy w.]

Ok so it depends how big the quilt is and whether it has a pattern that will be spoilt by trimming. With a small picture quilt I use my 12in square ruler and other rulers against it to be able to square it off. On a bigger quilt I use the borders as above to ease it into shape, I'm sure there's a more technical way.
My first quilt had blocks that were between 11 and 13ins ops: but luckily i managed to arrange them to come out fine.

Where's Margo gone she'll know the answer

What's your quilt like?

[Rita C.]

I use my 15" square-up ruler to square up the corners of the quilt . Can you post a photo so that we can see what needs to be done?

[Rita C.]

So, how do you square up a quilt that is supposed to measure 50 1/2 x 70 1/2 before borders, but it only measures that in some places. ops: ops: I imagine that I should square up the long sides before putting on a border?

[E.M. T.]

Could it be that you need to give it a better pressing? Measuring as you go along... perhaps blocking a little ?

[Margo C.]

So, how do you square up a quilt that is supposed to measure 50 1/2 x 70 1/2 before borders, but it only measures that in some places. ops: ops: I imagine that I should square up the long sides before putting on a border?

Yes!! And remember in future projects to measure and correct as needed as you build the center!

Sue Garman always preached: Measure accurately, cut accurately, stitch accurately and press accurately. Good advice!

[Margo C.]

you can always take my approach which is to be thrilled if, when I measure top/middle/bottom to get the average so I can add the border, I come out with 1/2" difference or less And then if it's more I just find the shortest block sticking out the edge and slide mat & ruler under/over and cut so that all the edges of the blocks match that one and thus my 1/4" seam for the borders will work.

:mrgreen:

But then, I am a terribly imprecise quilter so perhaps not the best advice to follow........my quilts are made to be used & loved, not hung in a gallery or show, so I completely don't mind the imperfections. I do realize this approach doesn't work for everyone, though