Cutting long borders

[Constance G.]

In the month 5 instructions we are told to cut the side borders 10 x 81 inches and the top and bottom borders 10 x 65 inches. I hate to sound stupid, but I always feel kind of like a deer in the headlights when it comes to cutting these LOOOOOOONG strips. I assume that they are cut a bit oversized, so extreme accuracy is not needed, but I still feel like I'm fumbling around with my rulers when trying to do this. Does anyone have tips or tricks for how they do it? Do you fold your fabric, and if so, how? :?

[Constance G.]

Also, Margo, did you starch the fabric for the borders before cutting?

[Margo C.]

We are told to "Cut 2 side borders each 10" x 81". Cut the top and bottom borders each 10" x 65".

The assembled measurement of the units we have already completed will be 63", so I am assuming that the width will also be trimmed after the borders are appliqued.

When I cut my long borders, I will starch a length of fabric as directed. They have already added a couple of inches to the length.

I will simply fold the starched fabric length in half twice, being sure to line up the selvage edges and use my 24" ruler to cut off the selvage edge then cut the 10" wide strips.
Because these are to be cut so wide, we are basically cutting our yardage in fourths, but to make trimming easier later, I will go ahead and cut the 10" widths instead of just chopping it into quarters.

[Constance G.]

Thanks, Margo! I knew I could count on another early riser for a quick reply!

[ANNE E.]

I took a class where the teacher snipped the top of the fabric at the required width and then tore the fabric down the length, I had never seen this done before and it frightened the life out of me, :shock: but it worked.
I've never done it since though.
Anne
In sunny and warm (at last) Surrey UK

[E.M. T.]

We used to do that a lot...but I hate all the threads !!! :evil: So I fold and rotary cut !

[E.M. T.]

I have torn the fabric for my borders ever since the very first quilt I made. The instructions with the pattern suggested that and it worked so well that I've never done it any other way. That being said, I should also say I am not a "competition quilter". But my quilts turn out good enough for me.