Who is Quilter’s Rule?
Popular Road to California Vendor, Quilter’s Rule, was started in 1983 by Jim and Patricia Simons. They produced the first “fabric gripping” ruler made especially for the quilting industry. This signature ruler was designed to be used with a rotary cutter. Quilter’s Rule has since designed many rulers with the same “fabric gripping” technology.
As their logo says, “We’re more than just rulers!” Quilter’s Rule also manufactures a variety of products including:
- MegaMat pinnable gridded mats, sizes range from 5″ x 7″ to our largest 60″ x 120″.
- A large assortment of Machine Quilting Templates for use by short-arm, mid-arm, and long-arm machines as well as large-throated sit-down machines.
- A host of Specialty Rulers.
Teaching at Road
Patricia Simons is always willing to share product knowledge regarding her company’s rulers and mats. She is easily recognized by her flamboyant hats and her long braid.
A question Quilter’s Rule is often asked is “How do I take care of my rulers, templates and mats?”
Quilt Ruler Maintenance
Patricia says that it is important to shop for durable rulers because they will last longer. Essential features to look for in a durable ruler include:
- Molded instead of cut out of plastic
- Have their lines injected instead of silk screened on
- Have a clear coating protecting their marking instead of just having the ink speed dried.
Templates
Patricia suggests that templates should be ¼’’ thick if they are going to be used with quilting machines. Thinner templates are best for tracing designs.
Mats
Patricia states that a common problem with quilters is that they don’t understand the durability of cutting mats. She commented that there is a notion that mats are self-healing; that cuts and scratches can magically fill in thus preserving the life of a mat. Patricia points out that because mats are made of non-living materials, there is really no way a scratch or cut can totally disappear. The ability for a mat to last over time is due more to the care that it is shown. Some tips for extending the life of a cutting mat include:
- Only use a rotary cutter with a sharp blade. Dull blades will damage a mat.
- Never push harder with a rotary cutter than is necessary to cut fabric.
- Cutting repeatedly on the same line will erode the mat on that line and cause it to bubble or warp. Move your cuts around.
- Wash your mat occasionally with warm soapy water to keep it clean.
- Always store cutting mats lying flat – not rolled up.
- Keep mat away from direct sunlight or excessive heat sources for long period of time.
Thank you, Patricia Simons of Quilter’s Rule, for these great tips. To learn more about Quilter’s Rule, please visit their website.
