Trimming Multiple 1/4in Seam Allowances at a Time
Someone once told me, “If the task is repetitive, there’s always a shortcut to speed things up.” So here I am with a shortcut on trimming multiple ¼ inch seam allowances at a time. I’m using the Blooming Scraps quilt pattern as an example in this tutorial. The pattern is foundation paper pieced, but the following trimming method can also be applied to non-foundation paper pieced projects. This is a short Instagram Reel for more visual support and how it can be applied on a non-foundation paper pieced project.
Step 1: Move on to the following step if the project does not incorporate FPP. And if you are working on an FPP project, fold the paper template back on multiple templates.
Step 2: Use any vertical guide on the cutting mat. In this example I have used the 4 inch mark on the cutting mat. For FFP’d projects, line fold on the template with the vertical guide.
For non-FPP’d projects, line up the seam with the vertical guide.
Step 3: Use the fold from the previous unit and the same vertical guide on the cutting mat to determine the placement of the next template.
For non-FPP’d projects, apply the same method as you would with the FPP fold and vertical guide, but use the seam instead.
Repeat this step and have no more than 5 to 6 units or templates lined up at a time.
Step 4: Line ruler ¼ inch away from the folds on the templates and cut.
For non-FPP’d projects, line ruler ¼ inch away from the seam and then cut.
And there you have it. Multiple templates trimmed at a time!
Couple of things to keep in mind while you perform this shortcut:
- Measure twice, cut once.
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Start with a couple of templates and gradually add more templates to be trimmed as you gain your confidence.
But don’t be too greedy. If you have too many templates under the ruler, you might not be able to trim all of them in one sweeping motion. You may also not be able to apply the same amount of pressure on the ruler and templates, causing the ruler to slip and slide, which then leads to inaccurate cutting. Personally, 5-6 templates at a time is my limit.
Happy trimming!
