More on making triangles?

[Margo]

I was told when making triangles to cut the fabric squares larger than you want, sew the squares together diagonally at 1/4" off center on both sides, cut through the middle, then press open. Then you have to remeasure them and cut them to size. Is this a normal way of doing it? It seems like I have been working on the same squares for hours and not getting anywhere.

[Franceslovesfabric]

Laura,
That is one way to make them. One of my friends makes all her half square triangles that way. Instead of adding 7/8 of an inch to the finished size, she adds an inch, draws a line down the center, sews a quarter inch on both sides and cuts them apart. Then she trims the squares to the size that she wants. That way they are always the right size.
Frances

[EditorAnne]

Laura,
That is one way to make them. One of my friends makes all her half square triangles that way. Instead of adding 7/8 of an inch to the finished size, she adds an inch, draws a line down the center, sews a quarter inch on both sides and cuts them apart. Then she trims the squares to the size that she wants. That way they are always the right size.
Frances

The advantage of doing the stitching before cutting the square into triangles is that the bias is less likely to stretch.

You still need to be careful not to stretch the seam when pressing the sewn piece open, though.

Anne in Vancouver, Canada

[Margo]

And starching the fabric before you sew definitely helps to control the stretch on the bias!

[Margo]

Eleanor Burns has a great square up ruler that I use. Before you cut the sewn square into triangles, you use this ruler.
http://www.quiltinaday.com/shoponlin...1087&page=

You place the line on the ruler on the stitched seam, and cut away what is hanging over. Then cut and press. Clear as mud, I know!

Maggie in E. Central Illinois

[Margo]

I am loving the ruler! I'll order one tonight. Can a quilter have too many rulers?? Thanks gals. I'll keep plugging along, at least I can listen to Alex's podcasts while cutting.