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Videos and helpful resourcesIf you are new to cutting out fabric, then read the tips below. There is also a video I made about cutting strips for a previous sew along that will talk you through the basics.
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Getting Organised
As the Sypher quilt uses 16 colour fabrics, a background fabric and a binding fabric, so staying organised is really important. . For cutting out I would start by just getting out the fabrics you are about to cut, so get A, B, C and D out first and leave the others in the box. As you cut each fabric separate them into bags or small boxes of the same size.
As the Sypher quilt uses 16 colour fabrics, a background fabric and a binding fabric, so staying organised is really important. . For cutting out I would start by just getting out the fabrics you are about to cut, so get A, B, C and D out first and leave the others in the box. As you cut each fabric separate them into bags or small boxes of the same size.
Cutting Out
OK so let's get cutting out. If you've managed to leave your fabric intact and have just been stroking it, then now is the time to pick up the rotary cutter and get going. The pattern page for cutting out lists all of the pieces you need and simply work your way down the list. For each fabric the cutting is broken down into the number of strips you need to cut and then the pieces you will sub-cut from each strip. If you are new to following patterns then let me explain.
The following is the first Background fabric cutting instruction:
TIP -Before the first cut I will straighten out my fabric by trimming it, by taking the tiniest of amounts off. If you are new to cutting then have a look at my cutting strips video and it will show you how I do it.
OK so let's get cutting out. If you've managed to leave your fabric intact and have just been stroking it, then now is the time to pick up the rotary cutter and get going. The pattern page for cutting out lists all of the pieces you need and simply work your way down the list. For each fabric the cutting is broken down into the number of strips you need to cut and then the pieces you will sub-cut from each strip. If you are new to following patterns then let me explain.
The following is the first Background fabric cutting instruction:
- (4x) 2½" WOFQ strips, sub-cut into a total of;
- (x60) 2½" squares
- (x60) 2½" squares
TIP -Before the first cut I will straighten out my fabric by trimming it, by taking the tiniest of amounts off. If you are new to cutting then have a look at my cutting strips video and it will show you how I do it.
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My favourite cutting tools and tips
New Rotary blade How many times do you put off changing the rotary blade and just make do, I know I forget. But, that feeling when you start cutting with a new blade is amazing, it really does make it easier. Magic Spray Does your ruler keep sliding as you cut? Try some Spray and Stay from Crafters Companion. This handy spray gives a fine layer of adhesive to your ruler, it doesn't stick to the fabric but it does make your ruler grip better, Magic! Stripology Ruler This one is a bit pricey and I put off buying one for years as I wasn't sure it would be worth the money, but heck it really is good. I purchased one in the summer and I love it now. For patterns where you are cutting lots of strips the same width it really does speed up the process. How do I stay organised? I'm a big fan of trying to be organised, it doesn't always stay that way once I start sewing, but I do start with the best of intentions. I make use of all of those plastic bags that are lying around. I wouldn't suggest buying new ones, but I seem to end up with a stash to re-use and I keep them in a box in my sewing room. I pop each pile in a bag and add a little post it note so I know what they are. Once I've made all of the units, or blocks I will then re-organise my bags so that there is one for each block. I'm also a huge fan of the Sarah Ashford project pouches (I have many), they are great for keeping all of the project bits and pieces together. You can order one from Sarah's Etsy shop - www.etsy.com/uk/shop/SarahAshfordStudio |
Remember to post your photos using the #syphersal and tag me @paulasteel.quilts and Lisa @modernquiltclub so we can share in your achievements and spread the encouragement.
Good luck with all of the cutting, I know for me it's the most patience testing part :) And check back next week for week 2!
Good luck with all of the cutting, I know for me it's the most patience testing part :) And check back next week for week 2!
