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The sashing area of the quilt in this tutorial measured 11” and something rather than the 12” it (probably) should have measured. I wanted to do a simple “X” (cross-hatch-like) design but needed to break the area up evenly for stitching. Using adding machine paper, here’s how I did that.

I use adding machine paper to measure areas to be stitched.

Because the sash area measured nothing evenly I laid the adding machine paper directly on the area to be quilted; pinning one end to hold it in place and then just folded over the other end to mark the end of the area. I then cut/tore that end on the fold.

Fold that piece of paper in half (and in half again) until you have it folded to a size you think will work for your sash area. The number of folds depends on the size to quilt and requires some trial and error. At this point, I will sometimes notch the corners for easier marking.

4) Lay that folded paper template down over the area. If need be, pin it at either end to hold it in place. Using the notches or folds and your favorite marking tool (mine is a Generals Chalk Pencil) mark your measurements for stitching.

5) In this instance I want to stitch a cross-hatch-like pattern in that sash so I will use those chalk markings and stitch from the “top” of the sash diagonally down to a marking on the bottom of the sash and back up, diagonally to a marking along the top again. Do this back and forth until the sash area is complete.

6) Here is my odd sized sashing evenly divided, simply, using adding machine paper and a folding technique.

Have fun!

This tutorial and photographs were provided by Lori Nixon. You can reach her via e-mail at lmnixon @ hvc.rr.com.

If you have any questions or comments for Lori about her tutorial, you can visit the forum here to post your message. You do have to be registered with the MQR forums in order to read and post.