Spot On: The Art of Fussy Cutting

Snip smart, sew beautifully—let your fabric do the talking.

Christy Berry

First, let’s make sure we all know exactly what Fussy Cutting is in the quilting world.

Here is what Google has to say about it….

“Fussy cutting is a technique in quilting and sewing where you intentionally cut fabric to highlight a specific design element within the print, such as a flower, character, or word, according to The Quilt Show and GnomeAngel. It's about carefully selecting and cutting the fabric to feature a particular part of the print, says The Nerdy Sewist and prequilt.com.”

Fussy cutting is where creativity meets precision—and it’s one of the most fun ways to add personality to your quilting projects. Instead of cutting fabric without regard to the print, fussy cutting is all about zeroing in on specific motifs, shapes, or scenes and turning them into the star of your quilt block. Whether it’s centering a sweet floral, a quirky animal, or a geometric design just right, this technique allows you to highlight your favorite parts of the fabric in a thoughtful and eye-catching way. It may take a bit more time and planning, but the results are nothing short of magical—adding charm, whimsy, and a custom feel to your finished piece.

Laura Qualls

What fabrics can you use?

Anything that is not a solid can be used for fussy cutting. There is a misconception that this refers to large prints with intricate designs. Not true. As we always say, there are no quilt police. If you see an element from any fabric you are working with that you want to highlight, you can fussy cut that portion of the fabric to create your focus. 

Center Motif – Fussy cutting is all about intentionality, and focusing on a center motif is a great way to showcase a standout element in your fabric. By carefully isolating a larger design—like a flower, animal, or graphic—you can create a striking focal point. You don’t have to fussy cut an entire project; even highlighting just one design element can add a special pop and bring your quilt to life.

Section Repeat – Perfect for smaller-scale designs, this fussy cutting technique involves selecting a favorite part of a fabric’s pattern and cutting that same section repeatedly. By isolating and repeating a specific graphic element, you can create a unique, cohesive look that transforms the original fabric into something entirely new and uniquely yours.

Framing – Use geometric shapes, stripes, zigzags, or even polka dots to create a visual frame around your design. For example, turn striped fabric into hexagons or align lines within your blocks to form an entirely new element. Even a simple pinstripe can be transformed—by cutting and rotating the pieces, you can create something completely unexpected and fresh.

Pattern Matching – This technique is all about precision and intentionality. It involves cutting a specific motif into sections and then stitching it back together so that the lines align seamlessly—giving the illusion that it was never cut at all. It’s a beautiful way to highlight a design you love, especially if it appears in multiple colorways. By piecing together the same element from different fabrics, you can create something truly unique and visually striking.

Tools for Fussy Cutting – Having the right tools makes all the difference. Clear rulers are essential so you can see exactly what you're cutting. A light box is also incredibly helpful, allowing for greater visibility and precision. Be sure to use a small rotary cutter—the smallest you can find—for maximum control and accuracy with detailed cuts. And don’t forget a rotary cutting mat, especially a rotating one. It’s invaluable for turning your fabric as you cut, allowing you to reposition without lifting or shifting your fabric, which helps maintain precision.

And remember, for all fussy cutting, include your SEAM ALLOWANCES when you start to cut. 

To find out more about fussy cutting, be sure to check out our YouTube channel. Kim focused on these techniques on our Thursday LIVE. You will see some incredible examples of these elements. 

Looking for inspiration? Head over to Instagram and explore the world of fussy cutting. A great place to start is the hashtag #fussycutsewalong, where you'll find sew-alongs, creative classes, and plenty of fresh ideas to spark your imagination.