Does Size Really Matter?

How many times in life has this question been asked? Well, in quilting, size definitely does matter…especially the size of your blocks! I learned this the hard way when making my first quilt. I am a VERY literal person. When following a recipe, I don’t do well with “season to taste.” Tell me exactly how much seasoning to add. If I need to preheat the oven, tell me. Don’t assume I know to do this. The same applies with quilting. Not once have I ever read the words “square the block” when following a quilt pattern. My theory was that if I followed the directions of the pattern, then of course my blocks would be the size indicated. Wrong!!

It wasn’t until my third quilt that I heard the phrase “squaring the block.” I was at my LQS, and I was talking about my first quilt and how my seams wouldn’t line up. I didn’t know how on earth that could have happened! The owner asked if I had squared my blocks. I’m sure I must have had the blankest look on my face! Okay, so obviously this is a very basic step in quilting that every quilter should know, as evident by the look I received when I shook my head no. Well, she patiently walked me through the process, carefully explaining and demonstrating each step along the way. I just smiled and nodded my head at the appropriate times. Once I got home, I quickly went to my trusted computer and looked up “How to square a block.” After looking at lots of blogs and You Tube videos, I finally found a method that worked for me. I have to admit though, that squaring the blocks has become one of my least favorite parts in making a quilt. However, I remind myself, it must be done. Because, as I have learned... size does matter.

Have a great day!

 J Michelle