Power Sewing

Here is the start to my almost red and white quilt. I am really happy with the fabrics I chose and I did not BUY any of them!!! Everything is from my stash. (Kathie recognize any of those reds?)

This is my little tip for half square triangles. I cannot piece accurately to save my life. So I always sew them oversize and cut them perfectly to the size I need. I recently realized I don't have to cut the square perfectly if I am already planning on cutting them down. So I just eyeballed the size, using my cutting mat and cut them roughly 8 inches. My planned finish size is 6 inches. Now it does waste a little fabric but it really did save me in time as they are all almost pieced and ready to be cut to size. It is very scrappy so I had to cut a lot of different fabrics as well, again it went faster than the other way.
I also apparently need to go back to 4th grade and learn multiplication as 15 x 15 does not equal 300 but 225! Yes I cut enough for 300, so did I really save any time?

I cut it right on the line and don't even use a ruler.

Voila a half square triangle ready to be trimmed.

Another time saver is this 6 1/2" ruler, now there is something I wish I had thought of! All you do is line up the 45 degree angle on the seam, trim and it is good to go.

I adore this rotating mat, it is worth every single cent I paid for it......

One of our home projects that I don't have to help with....Bob ripping up the hallway floor to put down the new hardwood floors. I really should be outside in the garden but the sun went in and it is cold out again......maybe tomorrow.

Kelly