Does the word “template” make you shudder and evoke memories of disappointment and dislike? Let Michele show you how to easily make “dimensional patterns” that are meant to be used with a rotary cutter and mat. Once the technique is learned, you will be able to make these durable templates using patterns from any source: magazines, classes, even your own drafted designs. You’ll never line up your rotary ruler and cut to the wrong measurement again! You’ll use less fabric, have less waste, and always cut your patches on the correct grain.

• You can use a metal craft knife OR an old 45mm rotary cutter to make straight cuts for your templates. The rotary cutter is easier, but you should be experienced and comfortable using it. Only the craft knife can make the curved cuts.
• Metal craft knife that doesn’t allow the blade to wiggle sideways too much or a red-handled craft knife (like X-ActoÒ) with size 24 or equally-substantial blade
• Cork-backed metal ruler found at stationary, art supply and discount stores (not necessary if you are familiar with using a rotary cutter) – 12” is a good size
• 45mm rotary cutter with a blade that needs sharpening (yes, that’s correct) and won’t cut fabric well anymore (finally, a use for those dull blades!)
• Rectangular rotary ruler (at least 12”)
• Paper scissors
• #2 chipboard (found in art supply stores) – provided by instructor for this class
• 2 sheets of medium or fine grade sandpaper
• Rubber cement with brush in the cap, OPTIONAL: Rubber cement “pick-up”
• Emery board (nail file)
• Small bottle of white glue (like Elmer’sÒ)
• Cutting board (can be plastic, having texture is a plus) – in addition to your rotary mat (check dollar-type stores)
• Pencil
• 6 sheets of copy/typing paper
• Patterns for templates you would like to make, or instructor will have common template patterns for you
• 28mm rotary cutter (this one has to be sharp to cut fabric)
• · Rotary mat
• Two different color fat quarters of practice fabric that has been pre-shrunk, pressed and folded in fourths: Wrong sides together, align selvage edges and press resulting fold. Bring fold up to selvage edges and press that resulting fold so you have four layers. (You can save fabric by avoiding the tight weave at the selvage edges.)

For questions, contact:
Michele Harer
harerloom@computer-connection.net

Michele Morrow Harer has been quilting for over 30 years and professionally teaching for 4 years. She has won, among many awards, prizes and first place ribbons, the National Grand Prize in the Viking/JoAnn Fabrics "Diamonds are Forever Contest." She has also designed and helped make many fund-raising quilts for charities such as WXXI and Ronald McDonald House. She is the secretary of the Genesee Valley Quilt Club, Inc., and is currently involved in creating their 2004 raffle quilt, "Fans and Flower Baskets."