Yesterday I showed you what a half-square triangle block is (and some of the tools you’ll use to make them). Today I’m going to show you how to make one. Actually – two, because with this technique you make them two at a time.
There are a LOT of different methods for making half-square triangles. Some of them make a lot of blocks relatively quickly, but they have a lot of steps that don’t feel very intuitive to me. This method is fast, easy to understand (once you do it once you’ll never need to look at the instructions again), and makes a nice accurate block. That’s all I ask for. 🙂
Update – Ask and ye shall receive! Someone asked for a printable PDF with very basic instructions that she could follow along with away from her computer. What a great idea! I put together a handy dandy cheat sheet on just one page – with photos. 🙂 Here’s the link to download it.
One more thing. In this video I tell you to cut your initial squares 1 inch larger than the size of the finished block. Most instructions tell you to cut cut 7/8″ bigger and then sew with a scant quarter inch seam allowance. That makes me really nervous. How much smaller than 1/4 inch is a “scant” 1/4 inch seam? If I’m not scant enough my blocks will be just a smidge too small and then I’m SOL. No. I’d rather cut my initial squares 1/8″ bigger, sew with a real (measurable) 1/4 inch seam allowance, and then trim away the tiny bit of extra I end up with. It’s much less nerve-wracking – plus the math is easier. 🙂
The possibilities with just half-square triangles are incredible!
Happy quilting!
Best,
Wendi
Wendy, I enjoy your videos very much because you make them so easy to understand. Thanks, and keep up the good work!
Charlotte
Thanks so much! I’m glad they’ve been helpful. 🙂
I certainly have quilt envy – especially with the quilting on the last example! You make everything look so easy and beautiful.
Thank you for all your posts.
Those are not my quilts – though I especially covet that last one. 🙂 That kind of quilting is done with a long-arm machine which I do not have. There are a lot of really talented people who never piece quilts – just do the long-arm quilting for hire. So tempting. . .
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Wendi,
You are a very skilled teacher. I have learned/relearned so many things on your website. Thank you for all your very clear instructions–so many helpful examples. And you are fun!!
Where can I find a pattern for the black star quilt that is simply stunning. Thanks
Click on the link below the quilt – that takes you to the site where I found the image. The maker is the first commenter – you may be able to contact her to see what pattern she used.