Quilting with Triangles

Triangles have the reputation of being difficult to work with. Although they are a bit more challenging that squares and rectangles, there is no need of being afraid of them. With practice, they are easy to do.

The most common type of triangle used in quilting is a right angle triangle, but these can be used in many different ways.

As you get into quilting, you will hear terms like half-square triangles, flying geese and more. These are all variations of right angle triangles.

Each one of these units has multiple ways that it can be constructed. Take some time to try a few different methods and find your favourites.

Types of Triangle Units:

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Half-square triangles

Flying Geese

Quarter-square triangles

Split Half-square triangles

Half Square Triangles

Half square triangles are triangles that are made by cutting a square on the diagonal. The term refers to both the triangles and the squares that are made by stitching two half square triangles together.

They are also commonly called “HST’s”.

There are many different methods to making half square triangles. Every quilter has their favourite. Try a few different ones and you will find one that you like.

Common methods for construction

This is the easiest method – simple and no math.

This is the most popular method – perfect results.

This is the obvious method – intuitive construction.

This method makes four at a time.

This method uses strip piecing.

This method uses paper piecing – my favourite!

Flying Geese

Flying geese are made with a rectangle of fabric and a triangle on either side. You can make these by joining two half square triangles, but that leaves a seam in the middle. Making them as a single unit reduces bulk and makes quilting easier.

Common methods for construction:

This is the easiest method – super simple.

This is the obvious way to make them.

Paper piecing means easy accuracy.

This popular method makes four at a time.

Quarter Square Triangles

Quarter square triangles are made by cutting squares into four on the diagonals. They can be stitched back together into units with two or four different fabrics.

Common methods for construction:

This method is the easiest ever – accurate with no math.

This method uses obvious construction.

This popular method is easy with little waste.

Split Half-square Triangles

Split half-square triangles are a combination of half square triangles and quarter square triangles. They can be made with two or three fabrics for different effects.

Common methods for construction:

This is the easiest method – no tricky calculations.

This method is intuitive – nothing to think about.

Paper piecing means perfectly accurate results.

This popular method makes four at a time.

Quilt Blocks with Triangles

Get started using triangles in these quilt blocks.