Corner triangles on my applique blocks

In handling the triangles just be careful not to stretch the bias cut side of the triangle. Are you adding triangles to the corners of the 10" block to end up with a snowball-like block?

Nanaquilts

QBee - Mary Ann wrote:

These questions from the inexperienced must seem so DUH to some of you - but here goes. Finished block size is 10". I'm supposed to cut squares 2 7/8", then cut them on the diagonal to make triangles to sew in the corners of my blocks. I have triangle fear! Would it be easier to cut squares, stitch them on, and trim half off? Or shouldn't I be afraid of the triangles?

NO! :affraid: At least, not using the squares as the pattern is (apparently) written.

If your base block is square, not on point, you should cut a 2 1/2" square for EACH corner. Fold the square in half diagonally, WRONG sides together, and give it just a brief press - not a crease to last the ages, just something you can see. Finger-flatten your corner square, align two raw edges with the raw edges of your base block, and sew along the crease. Flip the (new) triangle over toward the corner of the block, align the edges again, and press it from the corner toward the center. This is to keep from distorting the triangle by stretching it farther than the shape of the initial square. Trim off either both of the "hidden" layers in the corner, or just trim the middle layer.*

IF your base block is a diamond (on-point square), cut twice as many 2 7/8" squares. Do the fold thing like above, and align the fold with the edge of the base block. Sew 1/4" from the fold (that's also 1/4" from the edge4 of the base block). When you flip the (new) triangle over, you'll need to be careful that you don't press it out of shape. Trim off the "hidden" half of the corner square. You'll end up with a bunch of triangles left over (which were originally meant to be used in the blocks...), but if the thought of working with free-range bias edges scares you, this should work.

Or, you can just hit your fabric with some spray starch (before cutting is easier) so that your bias edges aren't quite as prone to stretch out when you just LOOK at them. I have double- and triple-sprayed my triangles (BEFORE cutting) so that when they were cut apart I could almost use them as playing cards! :lol: The bias still needs to be treated with respect, but it will make your life a little less stressed.

If you decide to go the starch route, the reason I say BEFORE cutting is that when you have a free-range bias edge, even the thought of moisture -whether from steam iron, a spritz of starch or a sneeze in the other room- could cause the bias edge to warp.

*If you want to go batty, on the 2 1/2" square method, before you flip it over and press, you can sew 1/2" to the outside (toward the corner) of the seam you just sewed on the fold. After you've opened and pressed it square, cut off the back 2 layers between stitching lines... you'll have itty-bitty HSTs to use for something...

Do you need pictures?

Most of the time, I would use the folded square method FB mentioned. I understand that the double thickness can be a hazard if you are a hand quilter, which I am not. If I decide to do it the way your pattern says, I might starch it heavily or sew a basting line 1/8" either side of the center before cutting to stabilize it.

quiltermarynel wrote:

... I might starch it heavily or sew a basting line 1/8" either side of the center before cutting to stabilize it.

Huh. I hadn't thought of a stabilizing basting stitch. That would be a good option for people who can't or won't use starch. Thanks for adding to my knowledge base, QM!
:flower:

Mary Ann - I'm glad that you "got it" :D We'll be watching for show and tell!