In my latest pattern, Evenflow, I am working with larger blocks so I thought it would be helpful to give a quick tutorial on how to trim these blocks when you don't have a giant ruler. Though, I use my 16.5" x 16.5" ruler ALL the time. If you are in the market for a ruler to add to your collection, I would definitely consider this one.
Anyway, here is a quick rundown of how you can use two smaller rulers to square a larger block. In my HST example, I am using a 6.5" x 24" ruler and a 9.5" x 9.5" square ruler (affiliate links).
Last thing before we get to the tutorial, if you want to see this in action, check out my video here!
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I want to square my HST to 14.5" x 14.5". It is currently about 15" x 15".
First, some math. I want to square my block to 14.5". My long ruler is 6.5" wide. So, since 14.5 - 6.5 = 8, I want to make sure I'm following the 8" marks on my square ruler.
Line up the diagonal mark on the ruler with the diagonal HST seam. Make sure there is room to trim to the left and bottom of the 8" ruler marks.
Once the square ruler is lined up, place the longer ruler next to it. Ensure everything is straight, and trim that first edge.
Rotate the block 180 degrees so that the previously trimmed edge is now on the left. Line up the 8" mark and the diagonal seam again and trim.
Rotate block so that trimmed edges are the top and bottom. Line up longer ruler along the bottom edge ensuring the corner of the diagonal seam lines up with the edge of the ruler. Trim that edge.
Rotate block one final time to trim the last side. Line up the 8" marks on the left and bottom edges.
Place long ruler next to the square ruler and ensure everything is straight before trimming that last edge. The corner of the diagonal seam should be lined up with the edge of the ruler.
Sit back and admire your accurately squared HST!
