No-Hassle Triangles Quilt Sampler
Looking for quilt block inspirations? Half-square (1/2-square) and quarter-square (1/4-square) triangles are the foundation for many quilt designs. Today, I’ll show you how to make super-easy 1/2-square and 1/4-square triangle blocks the no-hassle way in my Sewing With Nancy series, which features my popular No-Hassle Triangles Gauge.
During the first episode on Sewing With Nancy, learn to create six different blocks, all made with 1/2-square triangles. During the second episode—next week’s feature—learn about 1/4-square triangles. Here’s a sneak peek into this week’s Sewing With Nancy episode!
The Box Quilt (1898)
One of the more streamlined quilt blocks to create from 1/2-square triangles is the Box Quilt. First illustrated in print in 1898, it’s created with eight 1/2-square triangle blocks and a square. The design has great movement, reminding me of a pinwheel.
Shadow Play
Instead of making all the 1/2-square triangles from the same fabrics, stitch together three different color combos. I call this block, Shadow Play, where the fabric choices create the impact.
Godey Design
Godey’s Lady’s Book was a monthly magazine published in Philadelphia between 1830 and 1876. Before the Civil War, it was the most widely circulated magazine in the United States. Sarah Josepha Hall was the editor of the magazine from 1837 to 1877; she also wrote “Mary Had a Little Lamb.” One of the designs featured in the magazine in 1858 was simply called, Godey Design.
Square in a Square
When researching quilt block names, I found literally dozens of quilt blocks named Square in a Square. With seemingly limitless geometric options with squares, no wonder it’s a common name. Regardless, it’s an attractive block designed with all 1/2-square triangles.
May Basket
May Basket is another frequently used name for a quilt block. I also found this block named, Cactus Flower. Your fabric choice will dictate the name. This version combines two sizes of finished triangles: 3-1/2″ and 6-1/2″, giving the block a center focal point.
Nancy’s Spool
This block may or may not be an original arrangement of 1/2-square triangles. My guess is that it has been created before, but since I couldn’t find it in print, I boldly named it Nancy’s Spool.
How to Make 1/2-Square Triangles
During the TV episode, I share how to easily make the above blocks as well as basic 2-1/2″, 3-1/2″, 4-1/2″, 5-1/2″ and 6-1/2″ half-square triangles. (Next week, learn 1/4-square triangle tips!) There’s no hassle and no need to cut a single triangle! The measurements are printed on the No-Hassle Triangles Gauge that I designed for Clover.
- Reference the left side of the No-Hassle Triangles Gauge to select a 1/2-square block size.
- Cut crosswise strips of two fabrics—the size is printed on the No-Hassle Triangles Gauge. Cut strips into squares.
- Lay the gauge onto squares to double-check the block size. If the block set is larger or smaller than the confines of the gauge, recut the blocks.
- Mark a center diagonal line through gauge die cut openings.
- Stitch a scant 1/4″ from each side of the center marking.
- Cut along the center diagonal line.
- Presto, there are now two accurate 1/2-square triangles!
Quarter-Square Triangles
In the second part of the No-Hassle Triangles Series on Sewing With Nancy, we’ll to take the hassle out of creating 1/4-square triangles.
1/4-Square Dance
Some quilt block names have a long history; others are simply made up on the fly! I’ll let you decide the authenticity of this block named the 1/4-Square Dance! Regardless of what it’s called, it’s the perfect block to begin our no-hassle quilt block journey.
Boy’s Nonsense (1898)
This quilt block named, Boy’s Nonsense, was officially recorded and appears in print in 1898. The block appears to include rectangular strips. Not so, the design is a combination of 1/2- and 1/4-square triangles plus a plain center square.
Silent Star
It might be difficult to comprehend, but the next block, Silent Star, is almost identical to the last block, Boy’s Nonsense. The main difference in construction is the center block—all the other blocks are the same. This is the case where fabric choices totally change the design!
Ohio Star
Simple in design, yet elegant, the Ohio Star quilt block has been in use since the early 1800s, with a spike in popularity in the 1930s. See how this 9-patch block can be made the no-hassle way in the 21st century.
Star of Hope (1980)
Now for your master’s degree in 1/4-square triangles! The Star of Hope combines a 1/2- and 1/4-square triangle; I call it a modified 1/4-square. Notice the three-color block of aqua, ivory and teal. Success comes by thinking this through and following the directions!
Card Trick (1979)
The Card Trick Quilt Block, like most magic, seems impossible to reproduce. What appears as a sleight of hand, is a very logical block to create once you see the elements. The Card Trick—I know you will not be fooled by the design!
How to Make 1/4-Square Triangles
There are several ways to make triangles; my preference is to use the No-Hassle Triangles Gauge. Reference the left side of the gauge for 1/2-square triangles and the right side for 1/4-square triangles.
- Depress and slide the guide to the size triangle you’d like to make. The guide will lock in place.
- Cut strips the size printed on the gauge. Then cut strips into squares. In this example, cut 6-1/4″ strips, then cut strips into 6-1/4″ squares.
- Stack two blocks.
- Mark the center diagonal line through the die-cut openings on the gauge.
- Stitch a scant 1/4″ from each side of center.
- Cut along the center; press.
- Stack two 1/2-square triangles, meeting opposite colors.
- Slide the gauge to the 1/2-square triangle marking on the left side. Double check that the block fits within the gauge perimeters.
- Mark the center diagonal line through die cut openings.
- Cut along the center marking; press.
- This time, you’ll have two accurate 1/4-square triangles! Using the No-Hassle Triangles Gauge guarantees that the sizes of the 1/2-square and 1/4-square triangles are compatible in a quilt design!
Watch No-Hassle Triangles (Part One and Part Two) on Sewing With Nancy online.
For a chance to win a copy of No-Hassle Triangles Quilt Blocks DVD from Nancy’s Notions, please leave a comment sharing which block (pictured above) is your favorite.
The randomly selected winner of a 6-in-1 Stick N Stitch Seam Guide from Clover is Peggy S.
Her comment was, “I’m teaching my friends’ two young girls (7 and 10) to sew, and I had them use these seam guides, which worked very well for them. I have been sewing a long time, but still learn so much from Nancy. Thank you Nancy, for sharing with us.”
The randomly selected winner of a copy of The Absolute Easiest Way to Sew DVD from Nancy’s Notions is Karen.
Her comment was, “Just when I thought I knew everything, here you are with more tips! You are awesome. What a wonderful resource this is.”
Bye for now,
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diane c
Silent Star is my favorite, but I think I would like to make a sampler quilt.
Debbie K
It’s hard to choose a favorite – they are all so lovely.
I like Card Trick for it’s complex look.It is reminiscent of many happy family times with 3 generations playing cards.
Also like Nancy’s Spool – think I’ll need to make this for my sewing room. Thank you for the excellent instructions.
Sheila
My favorite block is the Card Trick.
Rhonda
Love the card trick block. I’ve made it several times but it still amazes me when it all comes together. Your no hassle triangle guide looks like it would really help when making accurate triangle squares.
Mary Harris
I have always loved the “card trick” and wondered how that was done!
shirley grade
I love the card trick
BevM
I really like these sampler blocks! I have been wanting to make a spools block, so I pick the Nancy’s Spool, followed closely by Card Trick. I think the No-Hassel Triangles Gauge might be my next notions purchase. Thanks for simplifying these blocks, Nancy.
Julie Craven
Oh?????????????? I have two. The box quilt is nice. I am going to try it today. My second (first) is the card trick. I have always wanted to do a baby quilt with this pattern.
Thanks Nancy
Candice
I think I’ll start with Card Trick, then Nancy’s Spool, followed by Godey Design, followed by ………
Thanks for all of your wonderful tips and inspirations!
Joyce
If I have to choose, I’d say the card trick. But, I really like them all!
Dana Hatmaker
I would love to try them all, but definitely the card trick is my favorite.
Jackie Swanson
I love using half square triangles and this method will make it much easier for all of them to be the same size.
Thanks
Clovis
Wow. All of the blocks are great. I like Square in a Square, Silent Star and Card Trick. Thanks for all you do.
Brenda Ackerman
My favorite block is the Shadow play! A variety of fabrics and layouts started “dancing” around in my head as soon as I saw this block. Thank you for sharing this great Sampler Quilt!
Eileen Girens, WI
My favorite block is the Ohio Star. Plan to sew one in near future.
Diane
I think you are a Terrific Teacher ! I like the Ohio Star and Godey
Design ! But All of them are unique designs, and all of them have
Merit.
Linda
I am a dyed-in-the-wool romantic traditionalist–wearing retro and vintage whenever possible and practical. I guess that must be why I LOVE the Godey Design, with Ohio Star coming in second. I have the tool shown already. How great it would be to have the book and DVD to go with it! Thanks for your great visual instructions on this tutorial, by the way. You may things easier than they first “seam.”
Nancy
My favorite block is the Ohio Star. My grandmother made me a quilt using this pattern, 49 years ago, and I still have it.
Shirley C
Like all of the blocks, like card trick a lot Would like to make all of the sampler blocks.
Shirley C
Boys Nonsense is my favorite.
BARBARA MERKLEY
My favorite block is Stat of Hope.
BARBARA MERKLEY
My favorite block is Star of Hope.
Susan Spiers
Nancy’s Spool block- I love anything sewing! Thank you, Susan
Marilyn gean
The card trick is my favorite, will attempt someday, when I am more experienced at sewing thanks for a chance. Watch all your shows to learn. M g
Carol in Arkansas
I love the Star of Hope and Card trick squares. Would love a chance to win this. I’m just learning to sew and quilt. Thank you.
Pandora
I love the card trick block and still haven’t made one. I will yet!
Dee
I like the Godey Design block. Love the bit of history for each block, and this block goes back to the 1850’s.
Cathy Ferguson
I have always loved the card trick. After reading this, I think the next gizzmo on my list is the No hassles triangle guide.
Knella
My favorite is Godey Design.
Linda
Card trick! I WILL make this (sooner or later – but sooner, I hope!).
Bonnye
I like the star block. Star blocks are my favorite block.
Trish in Iowa
The two best are Godey’s Design and Card Trick because they look really complicated but, with good directions and a helpful tool, they are easy.
Dottie Bishaw
I love Nancys Spool block!
Donna Belisle
I like all of the blocks, but had never seen Nancy’s Spool block before and that really caught my eye, so, for today, that is my favorite block.
Carol Rechtoris
I just ordered the book on sale. I especially like the “Card Trick”. I was thinking of presenting this block as a talent at our church annual talent show. A spokesperson promoting the talent show once said “Maybe you know a card trick…” . Now I do. Ha! Ha!
beth d.
I would love to try out your methods of making triangles and half square triangles. I would love this cd.
Janet
I love the “Silent Star” block! It looks “happy” and complete and the color combination is gorgeous.
Gina M
Card Trick would be my favorite, although I have never met a half-square triangle pattern that I did not like! I also save up all my triangle scraps in a plastic shoe box (sorted in plastic sandwich bags by color) for future scrappy projects.
Jennifer Williams
I get so excited when I check my email and see your name pop up!! I’m new to sewing and I’ve been searching through all of your stuff online and have seen a cpl episodes on tv. You told me about a month ago to go to a second hand shop to try and find a sewing machine for the price that I could spend. I since then found the perfect machine and I’m trying my luck at my first quilt! Yayyy lol just want to say thanks for all youri knowledge and inspiration. I love the card trick. I’m buying that gauge you have its awesome
Lillian Klaeger
I like ALL of the blocks– but if I must choose I will pick Card Trick.
I will try the sampler.
Barbara
I couldn’t pick just one, so I have two favorites: Godeye and Star of Hope.
Marsha Dimond
I love the star blocks — Gody design & Ohio star.
Janice King
I love them all, but the Card Trick block has always mesmerized me! No matter how many times I try to figure it out, I always end up confused…lol.
Cynthia Schlais
I am having a hard time deciding my favorite block. I love them all. I think I would have to pick Star of Hope as my absolute favorite block.
I hope to purchase the No-Hassle Triangles Gauge at the Warehouse sale during the Sewing Weekend in May!
JoAn GODFREY
i LOVE making the star of hope!!! i just made a “round” of these blocks for a round robin!
the card trick looks like hearts!!! from an open heart surgery nurse!!
of course the spool is always a favorite!
Bev M
I like the Square in a Square and the Ohio Star
Michele Shaffer
Godey design is my fav.
Deborah Herold
Lovely quilt. Card trick has to be my all time favorite. Great instructions. Thanks.
Gail Beam
I really like the Nancy spool block, the square dance and silent star blocks. You always make things look so easy with your step by step instructions. Thanks for the chance to win another one of your great books!
Jennifer Reinke
I love the Star of Hope and of course Nancy’s spool–Thank you again for teaching us with your great visual tools. So many ideas .. . . I could make a beautiful sampler quilt.
Anita P.
I like both the Box Quilt and Nancy’s Spool. It would be fun to play around with and see what kind of secondary designs could be made by using one block.
Mary chevalier
The Card Trick is my favorite ,Always wanted to make a quilt with this block. Maybe someday.
Susan DeVore
I want to learn how to do the card trick block It has been haunting me ever since I first saw it in a quilt.
mary ann johnson
I like the card trick and silent star but do like all the rest. Would love to win this cd
sylvia from New Zealand
I simply love the Godley Star! Oh the possabilities with colours for this one. Close 2nd actually is your Nancy Spool . Again i could really go to town playing with my favourite fabrics. Bring on the new tool. Love love it! Thank you Nancy. ALWAYS the inspiration Sylvia
Deanna Duvall
Design+fabric+thread+ Nancy’s Spools. How can you go wrong?
Ellen
I’m impressed by the Godey Design. What a great way to piece the star without risk of stretching bias seams. Thank you!
Beverly
Love this gauge! I look for challenging quilt patterns to practice making “perfect” points and can see how this tool and the book would be a great asset toward this goal. Genius!
LAURA A
The card trick is my favorite. I am fascinated by all the different designs one can come up with using such simple shapes!
Mary
I watch your show on TV and I have yet to see one of your blocks that I didn’t like. Your instructions are excellent and easy to follow.
Julie Kill
My favorites are the “Star of Hope” and the “Silent Star”!
I love designs that appear different because of color choice!
Donna Fecteau
I love your show, you give us all such confidence in our ability to do what you do. Thank you!
Deb R.
I like Boy’s Nonsense, with the Star of Hope 2nd. They all look Fresh for spring!
Heather W.
My favorite is the silent star. I just purchased the no hassle Triangles gauge today so it would be great to have the DVD to go along with it.
Jill A
My favorite is the cactus block. It can look so different depending on fabric choices. Planning to start this sampler in the near future, after finishing a few UFOs of course!
Carol Neil
My favourite block is card trick .I love them all as they are very good the way they all come together
Marie
Extremely hard decision. They are all great. If I was to choose it would probably be “the silent star” excellent . I will make a sample of them all.love your site
b foster
r
watched tv station of no nonsense triangles plus bookforsale @ 9.95 6/22/20 would like to buy the book cna you help me find it?
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