How to Make a Quilt Block on Point

Learn how to make a quilt block on point.  There is a formula you can follow to make those quilt blocks “grow” in a setting that will make a larger quilt.  It’s a great trick when you need a larger quilt, but are limited with the amount of blocks.

I’ve been working on some quilts and there is one that I decided that the blocks should be on point.  After searching for a bit, I found the formula that works well and the blocks turn out great.

Why would you want to put quilt blocks on point?

The quickest answer for me is to make a larger quilt! Having those blocks pivot on point allows you a triangle shape sashing that enlarges the original quilt block.

These triangle sashings can be a great place for some fun and crazy quilt fabric, or maybe keep it a background color to calm the quilt down.  It can also be a great place to showcase some beautiful machine or hand quilting.

No matter what size of quilt block you are starting, the formula works great.  Plus, you will find a printable version in the Quilt Resource Library. (instructions at the end of the post)

Materials:

Quilt Blocks – squared up and ready to go

Fabric for the triangle – on point blocks – pick it up at Connecting threads or Fat Quarter Shop

Supplies you may need:

• Rotary cutter or a new sharp blade
• Cutting Mat
• Quilt Ruler
• Sewing Machine  this brother is my favorite!
• Iron here or here
• Thread
• Bobbins
• Scissors
• Seam Ripper  not my favorite thing to do!

How to find the size of block you need for the on point setting

1- You’ll first need to know what your finished center block size will be.
2- Divide this number by 1.414
3- Add 0.875
4- Round up!! You can always trim up the square after this is added, so I suggest that you round up to give yourself some forgiveness later.
Doing this will allow you to get 2 triangles for each square you cut.
So, for EACH quilt block that you want to set on point – you’ll need to cut 2 squares,
5- Cut in half diagonally from corner to corner

EXAMPLE:
ex: 20/1.414 + .0875 = 14.144 + 0.875 = 15.019, or about 15 1/8.
Now round up to 15 3/4″ or 16
CUT two squares 16. Cut two because you need four corners.
CUT each square in half on the diagonal.

Instructions / Setting quilt block on point

1- Pin triangle to one side – right sides facing
2- Stitch 1/4″ seam allowance

3- Pin triangle to opposite side – right sides facing
*Notice that the points of the triangle extend past the quilt block
4- Stitch 1/4″ seam allowance

5- Press and repeat for other two triangles

6- Square up if needed

Repeat with additional quilt blocks

When complete, you can now sew the blocks together
Side by side in a row – with the center block now on point.

Depending on how you want to finish your quilt, you can finish it off as is, or add a border, some corner blocks or quilt blocks.

You’ll find that the quilt blocks that are on point are much larger and in the end your quilt is larger! It’s a great trick when you need a quick quilt with not a whole lot of time.

The only thing that I have noticed that I struggle with is the amount of fabric that you need for those triangles.  It can take a lot of fabric! A scrappy version is perfect for eating up your extra fabric….or using your favorite background fabric is a great trick too.

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