How to Make Perfect Half-Square Triangles For Quilt Blocks

Sugar Bowl Quilt Block

When learning how to make quilt blocks, you will eventually run in to that block design that requires a half square, or triangle. This is simply a square that is cut in half diagonally. The square should be cut 7/8 inch wider than the desired size of the finished square to allow for the seams.

Things You'll Need

• Rotary cutter or scissors
• Fabric
• Water-soluble pen
• Ruler
• Sewing machine.

Instructions

1. Start by cutting perfect squares of fabric with a rotary cutter or scissors.

2. Stack two of your perfect squares right sides together and make sure they are lined up perfectly around the edges. With a water-soluble pen or pencil and your ruler, draw an exact diagonal line from one corner of your squares to the opposite corner.

3. Cut along the line to create four half-square triangles.

4. Stitch a seam ¼-inch on either side of the line instead of cutting along it if your pattern calls for the half-square triangles to be sewn together into squares. Line up the edge of the sewing machine's foot on your line as a ¼-inch guideline.

5. Cut the squares apart on the line that you drew as a guide. You now have two squares made of half-square triangles sewn together.

Tips & Warnings

• You will be sewing at an angle. Be careful the fabric does not stretch out of shape.

• Always use a back stitch to secure your seams.

References

• Learn to Quilt; Sharon Chambers