Back to library

1904 Star

Diagram of the 1904 Star quilt block layout
Design with this block

Techniques used (complete these first)

Two-at-a-Time Half-Square Triangles

HST Unit

Produces two matching Half-Square Triangles (HSTs) from a pair of squares.

  1. Cut one square from each fabric using the 2-at-a-time starting size.
  2. Place the two squares right sides together and mark one diagonal line.
  3. Sew 1/4 inch from both sides of the marked line.
  4. Cut on the marked line to separate the two units.
  5. Press open and trim each HST to unfinished size.

Pro tip: When the pattern needs an odd HST count, this method is ideal for making the final pair without committing to larger batches.

Triangle in a Square

Triangle-in-a-Square Unit

Build a centered Triangle in a Square unit with the stitch-and-flip method, then trim to the exact unfinished size.

  1. Mark a diagonal line on the wrong side of each side-fabric square.
  2. Align one side square with one top corner of the center square.
  3. Stitch-and-flip: sew on the marked line, trim 1/4 inch away from the seam, then press open.
  4. Repeat on the opposite top corner to complete the Triangle in a Square unit.
  5. Trim and square the unit to the unfinished size your pattern calls for.

Pro tip: For TIAS stitch-and-flip math, cut (1) one center square at unfinished block size (finished + ½") and (2) two side squares at half of that unfinished size plus ½".

Oversize and Trim (The Float)

Triangle-in-a-Square Unit

Intentionally cutting components slightly larger than needed to allow for a perfect trim-down after sewing.

  1. Cut pieces using the 'oversized' formula (usually adding an extra 1/2 inch).
  2. Assemble the unit following standard seam allowances.
  3. Place a square ruler over the unit, aligning the center or diagonal points with the ruler markings.
  4. Trim all four sides to reach the final unfinished block size.

Pro tip: When trimming 'Triangle in a Square', ensure the top point is exactly 1/4 inch from the edge so it isn't lost in the next seam.

Subunits first

Using the techniques listed above, make the following sub units: 4 Triangle-in-a-Square Units, 4 HST Units, 1 Plain Square Unit.

Block Assembly

Assembly instructions are currently in the works, check back soon for updates!

Home