Half Rectangle Triangles – WITHOUT My Ruler – Video Tutorial

 

 

So last week I posted a brand new and improved video tutorial on how to make half rectangle triangles with my HRT ruler. Today though, I’m going to show you how to trim HRTs if a ruler is not in your budget.

• Find the HRT ruler here
• See the video tutorial and more detailed process of half rectangle triangles right here

 

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Today’s post is part of a series called Quilt Block Building Basics.

Consider this a helpful visual and companion for any of my quilt patterns.  Sometimes you just need to see it to understand it.  

To view all previous posts in this series, click here.

 

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Directions

1.  No matter what size you need, you’ll add 1″ to the unfinished size you want your HRTs to be.  For example if I want to make 3.5×4.5″ half rectangle triangles, my starting rectangles will be 4.5×5.5″.  This ruler will make sizes 2×4″, all the way up to 4.5×8.5″.
2.  It’s important that you draw your line in the right direction.  Follow your pattern.  My patterns will tell you which direction to draw the line and you usually need some in each direction.
3.  Two rectangles sewn together will give you 2 HRTs with the seam in the SAME direction.  So unlike half square triangles, you can’t make the mirror image from one set (see #2).
4.  Sew a scant 1/4″ on both sides of the drawn line.
5.  Cut directly on drawn line creating 2 HRTs.
6. Press seams open and don’t forget to starch.
7. Cut a piece of copy paper to the “trim to” size or unfinished size you want your HRTs to be.
8. Tape copy paper to corner of any ruler (depending on direction of seam line will decide which corner you tape to)
9. Trim HRT as shown on video

Tools Used in Video

• Starch – I’ve started using Best Press, but if I run out and I’m on the spot, I make my own right here.
• Wool Mat
• Chi iron
• Half Square Triangle Ruler
• My rotary cutter
• Mat

 

 

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