squaring up a block

[chassis]

What is the best way to square up an 18" block. The largest square up ruler I have is 12"

[Quiltcreator]

Use your regular ruler and the lines on your cutting mat - trimming off a little on each side, of course, not all on one side! And I hope you mean that the block is 18" finished - then you would square it to 18 1/2".

[Evie]

Sometimes I use two rulers. In this case I would use my 12 1/2" square ruler and my 6" by 24" ruler. Butting them together with the 12 1/2" one squaring it. You would have to keep rotating and you would not be able to cut from corner to corner in one long cut.

When I did my husbands t-shirt quilt, I had to square the blocks to 15 1/2". I used by 3" by 18" ruler along side my 12 1/2" square ruler. It takes longer and I learned the hard way not to try to cut across two rulers that look like they are aligned. I caught the blade on the second ruler. I wish we had drawing capabilities so I could show you what I mean. My quilt teacher taught me this method. If I can find something on the internet, I will post it.

[seaborne]

Make an 18-and-a-half inch template - easiest way.

[zfatcat]

seaborne, great idea. I love this site. I great great info and ideas from everyone.

[sewbug]

I found this ruler and it is the best for squaring up large blocks. It's called The Block Marker and I bought it at Nancy's Notions. There is a video of how to use it on her website.

[Evie]

Seaborne, I just saw on another site where a woman recommended making a template out of freezer paper!