Seam Allowanceby Pana Buescher
Do you add 1/4" seam allowance to the measurements before you cut? Or do you cut to the measurements and sew 1/4" toward the edge? My first block was short about 1/2". ANSWER: The fabric strips in these quilting lessons include 1/4" seam allowances. So, cut your strips to the size indicated in the lessons. Here's a great hint for cutting accurate strips: Rule of Thumb: Measure TWICE and cut ONCE. That's right. Check the grid lines on your ruler and mat. Do they align on the correct number? Is your fabric even with the grid lines? Check it again. Cut your strips when you are ABSOLUTELY positive everything lines up. Here's another great idea. Buy more fabric than you think you'll need. This comes in handy if you make a mistake and need to cut another piece. Trust me, you'll be glad you did! I learned to buy fabric while it's still in my hands. I had too many incidents where I had to run back to the store to buy "a little bit more." But it was too late. The last bit of that fabric had sold out! I like to buy at least 1/2 yard extra. Here's three reasons why: 1. I'll have extra if I make a mistake. 2. I can build my fabric stash. 3. The fabric frays less in the wash when it's a larger cut. Thanks for your question about seam allowance.
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