Tools for Quilters

Tools can be a tremendous time saver if used correctly, but can easily damage your quilting project if used incorrectly.  Here are some tips about new tools and how to get the most out of them.

A clear ruler can be an excellent measuring tool, but it is easy to get off track on your guides and cut from the wrong mark. If you are cutting blocks of the same size, create some type of mark to notify you the correct measurement. A great marking device is as simple as a bottle of finger nail polish. Put a quick dab of polish on your desired mark so your cuts are perfect each time. When you're done, remove the polish with nail polish remover or acetone and the ruler is good as new.

Templates can be made from any material, just be sure it is sturdy enough to be reused many times over without compromising the original shape. Generations of women have used whatever was available, namely cardboard to create their templates. A great material to use is the thin plastic sheets often available in craft stores. Remember, the key to creating a template is to reproduce the pattern. If the template is not accurate the pieces will not fit together properly. Before you begin cutting fabric, create a test-block to make sure the template is accurate.

To make it safe, I took one of my husband's empty mint containers (Icebreakers) and turned it into a repository for used needles, pins and rotary blades.  Once it's full I'll tape it up and toss it in the trash.  No one can cut themselves on any of it!