Getting Off Square One

Shown above are (120) 5” squares of the denim twill and (120) 5” squares of the fake fur. The 5” dimension was relatively random, but was mathematically efficient in getting most yield out of both fabrics based on the yardage that had been purchased and the width of the goods.  My sister-in-law and I weren’t too concerned about what the exact dimensions of the final piece would be.  If you were looking to make a throw of a specific length and width you would have to put more effort into the calculations from even before your fabric purchase.  More about this type of estimating and planning in a future blog post.

The more accurate these squares can be in their size and shape, the better the rest of the construction of the finished product will be.  Pieces will match up at seams with more accuracy.  Seams will be easier to execute and ultimately assembled rows will be easier to connect.  The final shape of the throw will be more likely to be geometrically true.  I would highly suggest using a quilter’s acrylic square and a rotary cutter to cut both the denim and the fake fur.  Use of these tools results in a much more accurate square rather than cutting the materials with scissors.  The fur will slip around a bit but with firm pressure, you’ll get the hang of cutting it true to the edges of the acrylic square.