10 Must-Have Tools for Quilting with Precuts

Maximize precision and creativity with the right tools.

Quilting with precut fabrics—like 10" squares, Fat Quarters, and Colossal Bands (our 6.5” wide specialty strips!)—can save you time, reduce waste, and spark fresh inspiration. But to get the most out of your precuts, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference.

Here are 10 quilting essentials every precut quilter should have in their toolkit:

1. Rotary Cutter

A sharp rotary cutter (45mm or 60mm) makes quick, clean cuts through multiple layers of fabric. Perfect for trimming down precuts or customizing blocks.

2. Self-Healing Cutting Mat

A high-quality cutting mat protects your workspace and extends the life of your rotary blades. Look for one with easy-to-read gridlines for precision cutting.

3. Acrylic Rulers (Variety of Sizes)

You’ll want a few go-to rulers—like 6.5"x24.5" for long cuts and 6.5" square for Colossal Bands. Specialty rulers (like half-square triangle or stripology rulers) also come in handy for precut-based patterns.

4. Sharp Fabric Scissors

Even with rotary tools, a good pair of scissors is a must. Choose fabric-only shears and limit their use on paper.

5. Sewing Machine with Accurate ¼” Foot

Piecing precuts relies on consistent seam allowances. A ¼” presser foot helps keep your seams straight and accurate for blocks that match up beautifully.

6. Seam Ripper (You’ll Need It)

Nobody’s perfect—especially not when you're chain piecing 30 blocks! A trusty seam ripper is your best friend for easy fixes.

7. Iron and Pressing Station

Crisp seams = crisp quilts. A hot iron and pressing board will help flatten every block to perfection. Bonus: a wool pressing mat speeds up the process.

8. Pins and Clips

Whether you’re pinning bias edges or using clips for bulkier seams, secure piecing is essential—especially with wax prints that can have a little stiffness.

9. Design Wall or Layout Board

It helps to see your quilt take shape before sewing it together. A portable layout board or felt design wall lets you play with color placement using your precuts.

10. Storage for Precuts and Scraps

Keep your bundles neat and accessible with storage bins, baskets, or project pouches. And don’t toss the scraps—those small pieces are great for improv or appliqué projects!

Ready to Quilt with Precuts?

Whether you're working with bold half-yards or our Custom Pre-Cuts, these tools will help make your quilting journey smoother and more joyful.

✨ Explore precut bundles today at www.soulofcloth.com and build your dream toolkit, one stitch at a time.