How to Cut Straight - A quilting skills tutorial with Karen Brown
Do you have trouble cutting straight lines? Then check this video from Karen Brown of Just Get it Done Quilts where she shares her tips and tricks to help you with cutting straight. You need to cut straight to prevent your blocks ending up too small, or wonky and out of square. Despite all your ironing attempts, and time spent on sewing straight, it’s essential to also have accurate cutting.
Instructor
Karen Brown
Karen Brown is a quilter and crafter who loves to make things and check things off the list. She loves trying new things, finding short cuts and new ways of using old things and sharing that information with other quilters at Just Get it Done Quilts.
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Common Questions
What is covered in How to Cut Straight - A quilting skills tutorial with Karen Brown?
Do you have trouble cutting straight lines? Then check this video from Karen Brown of Just Get it Done Quilts where she shares her tips and tricks to help you with cutting straight. You need to cut straight to prevent your blocks ending up too small, or wonky and out of square...
How long is the tutorial video?
The tutorial video is 00:10:31.
Are supplies listed for this tutorial?
Yes. The tutorial page includes the supplies and materials connected to this project.
Is a transcript available?
Yes. A written transcript is available on the tutorial page.
Video Transcript
You need 4 tools for accurate cutting: a rotary cutter, a ruler, a cutting mat, and a stable surface.
1. The stable surface is important. You don't want it to wobble, adding variability to your cuts, and it needs to be at a height that is comfortable for you.
2. Rotary cutters come in a variety of shapes and sizes and you may want to have a few so you have precisely what you need when you need it (cutting small details or curves vs. cutting fabric strips). Trust your name brand makers (OLFA, Creative Grids, Fiskars, Omnigrid, etc.)
3. You want a cutting mat that is at least 24" in one direction so you can cut strips from Width of Fabric cuts, but you may want something smaller or larger depending on the project. Make sure that your mat is perfectly flat (if not stored properly they can warp over time.)
4. A good ruler is something you really need to have. Again stick to your name brands and get at least one that is 24" in length so you can cut width of fabric strips.
Additional tips:
- Make sure that your cutting station has plenty of room so everything can lay flat and you have room to move and cut.
- Your ruler should remain stationary as you cut.
- Your rotary cutter should have the blade on the inside edge (closest to the ruler). And remember to change your blades frequently so you've always got a good sharp surface.
- Use proper cutting form (Karen shares a demo in the video!)
- Get to know your ruler so can accurately measure.
- Crisp fabrics are easier to cut. Use some spray starch if you'd like.
- Accuracy takes practice - keep trying on some scraps!
