After your sewing machine, having a good cutting mat and a sharp rotary cutter are the first two things that are needed when you start you quilting journey. Before you start cutting your fabric, you will also need some rules. A few for cutting and then a few more for trimming...so let's get started introducing you to these fun rulers.
Rulers for cutting!
This ruler is my go-to for cutting. It is long and just the right width to cut any size piece in your quilt pattern. I have used this ruler for 10 of the 13 years I have been quilting and it is still going strong. Measures 6 inches by 24 inches.
2. This ruler is the perfect ruler for trimming small pieces or strips in your quilt patterns. Measuring at 2.5 inches by 8 inches it fits perfectly into your hand and is easily manipulated around the cutting matt.
3. Squaring rulers- Getting a set of rulers like this on gives you lots of options where cutting and trimming are concerned. these rulers. One of the most important steps in quilting is making sure that your blocks are squared up so when you piece them all together, your quilt is squared up as well.
4. Trimming rulers- I heard about these rulers only 2 years ago. These rulers are WONDERFUL for trimming any half square triangle blocks that you make. I make TONS of these blocks out of my scraps and left over pieces to put together for little bags and blocks. I used to open my half square triangles, iron them and then use my square rulers to trim them and make them square. After I purchased these rulers, my trimming time is so much shorter and the blocks are so much better!
5. Triangle rulers- a number of quilts require triangle or half triangle blocks to be cut. Although there are ways to do this with straight rulers. Having a ruler that is that triangle shape is ideal. A couple of years ago, I was commissioned to make a triangle quilt and at that point, I purchased these rulers. It decreased my cutting time because I didn't have to manipulate my fabric and straight rulers multiple times.
6. Hexagon and diamond ruler- a year ago, I was introduced to Jaybird Quilting. and Krista Moser they do FANTASTIC things with this ruler and this ruler! I am jealous of the work that they have done and can't want to have time to do one of their patterns...one day soon.
I know there are a ton of other rulers out there, but these are my favorites right now. Feel free to drop your favorite ruler in the comments. I would love to hear what you think!