Quick answer
To prep Lil' Alberta table runner pattern 210, gather 5-inch fabric squares plus background fabric, choose your ruler method, and cut carefully before sewing. The pattern's full-color instructions walk you through both the Stripology Squared Mini Ruler and regular rulers.
Why fabric choice matters for this runner
The runner finishes at 17-1/2" x 42", so fabric selection affects both the look and the cutting workflow. Because the design uses 5-inch squares, pre-cuts are an option, but you'll still need background fabric. Check that your squares are consistently sized; variations can throw off the layout.
If you're using regular rulers instead of the Stripology Squared Mini, allow extra time for cutting and double-check your measurements. The pattern includes instructions for both methods, so you can choose what you have on hand.
A note on fabric requirements
The pattern does not list exact yardage in the catalog description. Use the pattern's own fabric requirements as your guide, and consider buying a little extra of your background fabric to allow for cutting errors or directional prints. For the 5-inch squares, count how many you need from the pattern before cutting into yardage.
Step-by-step prep for Lil' Alberta
- Read through the entire pattern first: Before cutting anything, read the full-color instructions from start to finish. Note the number of 5-inch squares and background pieces needed, and decide whether you'll use the Stripology Squared Mini Ruler or regular rulers. Checkpoint: confirm you have the right ruler or are comfortable with the regular ruler method.
- Gather and organize your fabric: Select your 5-inch squares and background fabric. If using pre-cuts, sort them by color or print to plan your layout. Press all fabric to remove wrinkles before cutting. Mistake to avoid: skipping the press—wrinkles can cause inaccurate cuts.
- Cut background fabric accurately: Following the pattern's cutting instructions, cut your background pieces. Use a sharp rotary blade and a steady ruler. If using the Stripology Squared Mini, align carefully; if using a regular ruler, measure twice and cut once. Checkpoint: verify your cut pieces match the pattern's listed sizes.
- Trim 5-inch squares if needed: If your pre-cut squares are slightly off, trim them to a consistent 5-inch size. This step is optional but helps with precise piecing. Mistake to avoid: assuming all pre-cuts are exactly 5 inches—measure a few to check.
- Lay out the runner before sewing: Arrange your squares and background pieces on a design wall or table to preview the layout. This helps you catch any balance issues before you start piecing. Checkpoint: take a photo of the layout for reference during assembly.
Pattern facts
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Lil' Alberta - Table runner pattern 210: Uses 5" fabric squares plus background fabric, with instructions for both the Stripology Squared Mini Ruler and regular rulers. This means you can use pre-cut squares or cut your own, and choose the ruler method that fits your tools.
Lil' Alberta - Table runner pattern 210