Trimming Half Rectangle Triangles- The Easy Way
Half rectangle triangles (HRT’s) are a popular quilt block component that add a dynamic and modern touch to any quilt design. However, achieving the desired shape and size of these triangles can be challenging, especially for beginner quilters. That's where trimming comes in. In this tutorial, I’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of trimming HRT’s to ensure your quilt blocks are precise and accurate. With these easy-to-follow instructions, you'll be on your way to creating beautiful and professional-looking quilt blocks in no time.
Supplies Needed:
Rotary Cutter
Cutting Mat
A quilt ruler that has ¼” markings like this 6 ½” ruler from Omnigrid
For this example, the size of the HRT is going to be 2 ¾” x 2”. Start off by placing your ruler on a flat surface. Measure down 2 ¾" from the top edge of the ruler and place a horizontal piece of tape along the 2 ¾” line. Then, measure 2" in from the side of the ruler and place a piece of tape running vertically along the 2” line. Press the tape firmly onto the ruler to secure it.
If you did it right, you should have a rectangular box on your ruler that measures 2 ¾” x 2” as pictured.
Next, you will need to identify four important ¼” intersections before we start trimming. In the rectangular box you created you will need to find the intersections on the ruler that are ¼” in and ¼” down from the top left and right sides. Then, you will need to identify the intersections that are ¼” in and ¼” up from the bottom right and left sides as pictured below.
The ¼” markings you will be using as a guide to cut will depend on which way the diagonal seam of your HRT runs.
In this example the seam runs from the top left to the bottom right. Lay your assembled HRT flat on your cutting mat with your newly created rectangular ruler template placed on top of it. Line the template up over your fabric so that the two corresponding ¼” intersection points are directly on top of the diagonal seam as pictured below. Make sure your HRT fabric fills the rectangular box you created on your ruler.
Now let’s get to trimming!
Using a rotary cutter, place the blade against the side of the ruler and trim away excess fabric. Keeping the ruler and fabric still, place the rotary blade against the top of the ruler and trim away excess fabric. It is very important that you check to make sure your intersecting ¼” marks remain on the diagonal seam while making your cuts.
If your HRT looks crooked after your first cut, you’re doing it right! Keep going…
Remove the ruler and flip your HRT over 180°. Place the rectangular ruler template on top of your HRT. Line the ruler up over your fabric so that the two ¼” intersection points are directly on top of you diagonal seam again. This time the straight cuts you made in the prior step should line up with the 2 ¾" vertical line and the 2” horizontal line where you placed your tape earlier.
Finally, trim against the the side of the ruler and cut away excess fabric. Keeping the ruler and fabric still, place the rotary blade against the top of the ruler and trim away excess fabric. Remove the ruler and you will have a perfectly trimmed HRT.
It’s important to note that when you’re finished cutting, the diagonal seam line will not run through the HRT from corner to corner. The seam should be slightly indented from the edges.
Trimming half rectangle triangles is an essential step in quilting that ensures accurate piecing and crisp points in your finished quilt. By following the simple steps outlined in this tutorial you can trim with confidence and ease. Remember, this method for trimming can be applied to any size HRT. The key is to make the rectangular tape template on your ruler the same size HRT you need for your project. As long as your ¼” intersection points are directly on top of the diagonal seam while trimming, you will always have perfect rectangles. With practice, you'll soon master this skill and be on your way to creating beautiful quilts that will be cherished for years to come.
As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
