How to Use the QCR Mini Ruler for Curved Quilting

By Sew Kind of Wonderful | Published: 2026-10-20

Category: How-to Guides

Learn step-by-step how to use the QCR Mini Ruler for curved quilting. This guide covers cutting curves, sewing seams, and common mistakes to avoid.

Quick answer

The QCR Mini Ruler lets you cut precise curves in fabric and sew them together without pins or stretching, making curved quilting fast and accurate for small projects.

Why the QCR Mini Ruler works well for small projects

The QCR Mini Ruler is a 5" x 8" square-up ruler designed for cutting curves easily. Its smaller size makes it ideal for table runners, mini quilts, and other small-scale curved quilting projects. Because it reduces curved cutting and sewing time, you can complete a project like the included Mini Runner pattern in a single afternoon.

What you need before starting

Gather your QCR Mini Ruler, a rotary cutter, a cutting mat, and fabric. The Mini Runner pattern requires 2 fat quarters for focus fabric, 1/2 yard background fabric, 1/2 yard backing, and 1/4 yard binding. Press all fabric before cutting to ensure accurate curves.

Step-by-step instructions for using the QCR Mini Ruler

Cut your fabric strips: Cut fabric strips to the width specified in your pattern (for the Mini Runner, cut 2.5" strips from each fat quarter and background fabric). Stack up to 4 layers for efficiency, but do not stack more or the ruler may shift. Check that your rotary blade is sharp to avoid dragging the ruler out of alignment.
Position the ruler and cut the curve: Place the QCR Mini Ruler on the fabric strip with the curved edge aligned to the edge of the strip. Hold the ruler firmly with your non-cutting hand, keeping fingers away from the cutting path. Cut along the curve from one end to the other in a single smooth motion. Do not lift the ruler until you finish the cut; repositioning will create an uneven curve.
Arrange and sew the curved pieces: Match a convex curve piece with a concave curve piece right sides together. The curves will nest without pins—just align the edges and sew a 1/4" seam. Sew slowly, easing the fabric as needed, and press the seam toward the darker fabric. If the fabric shifts, use a walking foot to feed both layers evenly.
Square up the block: After sewing, place the QCR Mini Ruler over the block to trim it to the correct size. The ruler's square-up markings help you cut even edges, ensuring all blocks match before assembly. Trim only the edges that are uneven; over-trimming will make the block too small.

Product details

QCR Mini Ruler ©: 5" x 8" mini version of the Quick Curve Ruler, includes an enclosed Mini Runner pattern. The smaller size is easier to handle on a cutting mat and perfect for projects that don't require a full-size ruler.
QCR Mini Ruler ©