Because we're dealing with very small units, my instructions give you a bit of extra strip set length to allow for additional squaring-up steps to keep things accurate, and to provide extra segments for accuracy and design flexibility.
Miniature Quilt Helpers
Seam AllowancesThe squares in small nine-patch units finish at 1/2" -- just enough for two quarter-inch seam allowances to butt into each other on the back. We'll reduce the bulk by trimming seam allowances after assembling strip sets.
Crosswise Grain vs. Lengthwise Grain
The instructions call for strips of fabric cut on the lengthwise grain, which is less stretchy than the crosswise grain -- a helper when dealing with tiny units.
I went with shorter strip sets but bumped up the total number to allow for all of the units we have to cut. Doing that means we won't need as much yardage along the lengthwise grain, offers more flexibility for color, and helps you keep your strip sets more accurate (sometimes it's difficult to sew consistent long seams).
Get the facts about fabric grain.
Yardages
Setting Squares & Triangles: 3/8 yard (shown as black)
Plain Squares in Blocks: 1/3 yard of one fabric (shown as blue), and 1/2 yard of another (shown as rust); or about 3/4 yard of mixed fabrics
Assorted Fabrics for Small Nine-Patch: 1/4 yard of at least five fabrics (for variety)
Inner Border: 1/8 yard (shown as blue) Outer Border: 1/2 yard to avoid piecing (shown as black) Batting & Backing: About 33" square each
Binding: About 125 running inches; single-fold is fine for miniature quilts
