Square in square

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Do you have trouble with making square in square blocks? They can be a little tricky, getting the triangles just right on the square. So I have a few tips to help you out.

The first thing to do is figure out how big your inner square and triangles need to be. Correction: I find that if I make my inner squares 1 3/4" smaller than you want your finished block to be, then they come out right. So they will be the same size on the diagonal, as the finished block. (I'm so sorry about this mistake!! New meds for my fibro...enough said.) EX: if you want your finished block to be 6", then the inner square needs to be 6" on the diagonal.

And to find out how big I need the triangles, I first put my inner square on point. Making sure the points are on lines. I put my ruler on the top point, and measure from there to the side point. And then add 1/4" for the seam allowance. So in this case, I need my triangles to be 3 3/4".I usually add another 1/8" to a 1/4" for some wiggle room.

 

There is mathmatic formulas, for figuring this out. But I can never remember them :)

Cut out squares the size you need. Then cut in half once diagonally. 

You'll need two squares per inner square.

Here is an easy way to get that setting triangle just right. You want it centered on the inner square. So I fold the inner square in half, and just give it a little pinch at the top, where the triangle is going to go. (Ignore the flour on my thumb, I was also making bread. LOL)

The pinch just leaves a little fold mark, which quickly goes away.

Do the same thing for your setting triangle. Pinch.

Right sides together, match pinch marks and then pin.

Sew at a 1/4". Your 'dog ears' should stick out  a scant 1/4".

Now just trim.

So my tips are:

Tip 1: cut your setting triangle 1/8" to 1/4" bigger than you need.

Tip 2: Fold pieces in half and pinch to find the middle.

I hope this helps any of you having problems getting that 1/4" seam on your Square in square blocks.

I am making a new scrappy quilt with this. Called butterfly wings. Here's a picture. 

 

Just a starting. But it's what I'm working on now. You can see more pictures/etc on it on my blog, RidgeTopQuilts.

Thanks for stopping by! Have a great day.

Dorian

Copyright D. Lucas, 2011 This is my tutorial. You are welcome to use any of my tutorials for personal use. You are not permitted to use my pictures or my words without linking back to the original and giving me credit for them.