One of our favorite tools of all time is the essential quilting ruler. It’s hard to imagine how quilters from the past could make such precise cuts with only a cardboard template and scissors! We much prefer acrylic rulers and rotary cutters, but it can be difficult to keep up with all the new tools available. That’s why we’ve created this list of 5 Things You Need to Know About Quilting Rulers.
1. How to Choose a Quilting Ruler
Before you even get started using a quilting ruler, you need to choose your ruler! But how do you know which one is right for you? Rulers are available for every type of quilting possible, so making a choice can be rather intimidating. Luckily, we’ve written an entire article on the subject to help make that decision easier!
Read here: Selecting the Right Quilting Ruler for the Job or PIN FOR LATER
2. Different Accessories for Quilting Rulers
Ok, so you’ve bought your rulers, but now you’re looking for more. There are tons of accessories that you can purchase for your rulers to make quilting as efficient as possible. Some of the most popular accessories are grippers and stickers. Acrylic rulers can be slippery, and these tools help you keep your rulers in place for precise quilting.
Watch here: Quilting Rulers: Accessories for Quilting Rulers or PIN FOR LATER
3. Using an Add-Enough Ruler
In addition to your standard quilting rulers, you may be interested in some more specific tools. An Add-Enough ruler is great for paper piecing, since you need to cut large pieces of fabric. Learn how to use this handy tool in this informative video.
Watch here: Quilting Rulers: Using an Add-Enough Ruler or PIN FOR LATER
4. Where to Place Your Ruler
Now you’ve got your rulers, you’ve got your accessories, but… you don’t know what to do with your ruler. First and foremost, you need to know where to properly place your ruler. National Quilters Circle has answered this common question “I have often wondered whether the line on a ruler should sit ON the edge or BESIDE the edge of the fabric?” in our Ask an Expert series.
Read here: Where Should I Place My Ruler? or PIN FOR LATER
5. Understanding Hash Lines and Diagonal Lines
The last important thing to understand about your quilting rulers are the variety of lines on them. What do the hash and diagonal lines mean? How do I use them in my quilt? We answer all your questions about grid lines for several types of rulers in this video by Heather Thomas.
Watch here: How to Use Quilting Rulers Properly or PIN FOR LATER
There you have it! Our top 5 tips for quilting rulers. What kind of quilting rulers do you prefer? Tell us in the comments below!
Have something to add? Leave a comment or email editor@nationalquilterscircle.com.
quilting tips
I generally just quilt during the winter months.
It will be great learning more to help with my quilting.
Very informative and helpful for new quilters
It would have been better to all the hints as read. Don’t like videos.
Where can I get your block marker ruler please.
Hello Kathleen,
Thank you for contacting us. Great question! The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members of our online community. By becoming a member, you will have access to our expert’s knowledge in quilting. With your membership you will also receive discounts on products and hours of Premium video content.
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We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Kate
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