How to Make Half Rectangle Triangles (HRTs)

Today, I would like to share something I just figured out! Let's talk about Half Rectangle Triangles.  

For each set of two, you will need two rectangles. Both the same size. To figure out the dimensions of the rectangle, take your desired finished length of the HRTs and add 2 inches. Then take your desired finished width of the HRTs and add 1 inch.

I want finished HRTs that are 3 x 1 1/2 inches, so I will cut two rectangles that are 5 x 2 1/2 inches. 

 Next, place the rectangles right side together with opposing corners lined up, like in the picture. 

 Make sure that you have them lined up the correct way. Unlike half square triangles, you can't just flip them around to get them facing the correct way. 

So you will need to know if the top corners need to be touching on the left or the right. 

 Draw a line, touching corners to touching corners, then stitch a scant 1/4 inch away from the line on both sides. Then cut on the line and press open. You will end up with two half rectangle triangles that look like this...

 ...or this. 

Next trim them down to size. To do this, make sure the seam meets in both corners and cut to size. This is what my trimmings look like. 

 I used these HRTs to make this Utah Star block. They have a wide variety of uses in lots of diverse quilt blocks.

How are you going to use your Half Rectangle Triangles? 

Have fun quilting!