Slash and Burn

I'm teaching a class today that features mock patchwork.  We'll be layering 15" squares of fabric, marking a grid, sewing on either side of each grid line, and then slashing on the line to make some fun chenille accents.  Then, we'll cut away four of the nine top-layer squares to make the block look pieced.  It seems appropriate to use a slash cutter the day before Halloween!  When you're using a slash or chenille cutter, remember that the blade is exceptionally sharp, and the cutter can slip.  So use steady, firm, even forward pressure--you don't need too much--and start each cut with a snip from your little sharpie scissors.  This will help prevent a jackrabbit start that can lead to slashed seamlines!