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4 Ways to Keep Your Ruler from Slipping

October 04, 20243 min read

Have you ever been in the middle of cutting fabric, feeling all focused and ready to tackle that quilt project, when—whoops!—your ruler slips, and now that perfect cut is anything but? Ugh, we've all been there, right? The frustration is real, and it happens all too often if you ask me. Grab your favorite cup of coffee (or tea, if that’s your preferred vibe) because today, we’re diving into some simple, yet totally game-changing tools that will help keep your quilt ruler steady and your fabric right where it should be. Trust me, your quilting and all of your other sewing projects will thank you!

non-slip ruler grips

1. Non-Slip Ruler Grips

Okay, let’s talk about one of the simplest fixes—non-slip grips. These little adhesive grips can come in long strip or as circles, and they are a fabric saver! You just stick them on the back of your ruler, and voilà—no more slipping and sliding while you’re cutting. They’re affordable, easy to apply, and you can reposition them if you need to. Some popular ones like Omnigrip Grips or True Grips work wonders. I like that they’re such a low-maintenance way to keep everything steady without changing how your ruler looks or feels.

Ruler handle

2. Ruler Handles/Suction Cups

Now, if you’re someone who likes a little extra control, you're going to love ruler handles. You stick a suction cup handle onto the top of your ruler, and it gives you that extra grip you didn’t know you needed. I love these because they help you apply even pressure across the whole ruler, which keeps it nice and flat on the fabric. Plus, they’re easy to move around. My favorite part? Less hand fatigue, especially when you’re working on a bigger project. There are great options like the Gypsy Quilter Gripper that you can try out. Also consider them if you have young sewists in the house, as it's extra safe for fingers.

anti-slip grippy spray

3. Anti-Slip Ruler Coating Sprays

Next up, if you like to keep things super simple, there’s this magical stuff called anti-slip spray. You just give the back of your ruler a light spray, and it creates a grippy surface without being sticky. It’s kind of amazing because it’s invisible, doesn't stain fabric, and you won’t even notice it’s there—except for the fact that your ruler stops moving. Check out the Grippy Non-Slip Spray by Odif. Just a few spritzes, and you’re good to go!

creative grids

4. Specialized Non-Slip Quilting Rulers

Finally, if you’re ready to invest in a solution that’s built-in, non-slip quilting rulers are a permanant solution. These come with a textured backing that keeps the ruler right where you want it. Creative Grids Rulers are a popular choice, and the best part is that they give you that non-slip grip without having to add anything extra to your ruler.

There you have it—whether you go for non-slip grips, a handy suction cup, grippy spray, or a new set of rulers, keeping your ruler in place is easier than you think. Little thimgs like the right tools make all the difference! Now that we’ve got your ruler staying put, you can focus on the fun part—creating something beautiful! Let me know if you try any of these, or if you have a tool you love that I didn’t mention. I always love hearing what’s working for you. Happy fabric cutting, my friends!

quilt rulercutting fabric
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I 'm Chris

Makers gotta make, am I right? For creatives like us, making stuff brings joy to our hearts and soothes our souls like nothing else can!

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