How to Make a Triangle On-Point Quilt Block

Triangle On-Point Quilt Block

Not a block SET on point, but one that is constructed on point. These instructions are for a 6-1/2″ square block. Once you know the technique, it’s easy to make it in other sizes. Quilt-in-a-Day makes a ruler that will help with this block. You will see me use it later in the tutorial.

Start with the center triangle

Cut a 7″ square of the fabric you are using for the center. Fold it in fourths and press. This will help you mark the center of each side of the square.

A square folded in quarters
Mark the four centers of the square by folding it in quarters.

Cut from your mark to the opposite corner of the block.  Discard the corner triangles or save them for another project.

Now cut the side pieces

These are NOT the same size as the pieces you just threw away. They need to be a little larger to accommodate the seam allowance.

Cut two 4″ × 8″ rectangles on the diagonal as shown.  These half-rectangles will be sewn onto the sides of the center that you just made.  You will need one half-triangle from each group because of the angle — one for the left side and the opposite angle for the right side.  (If you cut these in pairs, right sides together, you will automatically get the correct angles.)

Place the center point right sides together on the left side half rectangle. Slide it up by 1/4″. This gives you a little notch to show you where to begin your seam. Notice that the tail of the half-rectangle hangs over by a bit.  That’s okay.  You will trim it later when you square up the block.  Sew this seam and press it to the half-rectangle.

Repeat with the right side, pressing toward the center. 

constructing the On-Point Quilt Block
It’s going to be sloppy, but don’t worry. You will square it up in the next step.

Square up to 6-1/2″, taking care not to cut off the 1/4″ seam at the point.  Use a Quilt-in-a-Day 6-1/2″ On Point Ruler to square this up if you have one, or a 6-1/2″ square ruler if you don’t.  

Match the ruler to the seams. In the picture, I moved it a bit so you could see the lines.

Use the form below to download and save this tutorial. It includes a paper-piecing template.

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Patterns that use this block are:

Zombie Mini-Quilt or Table Topper Graphci

Zombie Mini Quilt or TableTopper
Catch That Kite! Quilt Block Tutorial Graphic

Catch That Kite
Night Sky Tablerunner

Night Sky