Tips for constructing the Sawtoothed Square block that we will be drawing for at the April meeting.
Start by cutting 6 olive and 6 background squares that measure 4¼" square. Also cut 1 olive and 1 background square that measure 7¼" square.
Cut all the squares in half diagonally.
Sew the triangles to form 12 small half-square triangles and 1 large half-square triangle. (You'll have two large triangles left over.)
Now we'll trim the large half-square triangle so that it measures 6½" square. Start by lining up the diagonal seam along the 45 degree line on the ruler. The 6½" marks on the ruler should be on the inside of the square. Trim along the right and along the top.
Now rotate the block and line up the 6½" marks on the ruler with the bottom and left edges of the square. Trim along the right and top edges.
Use the same technique to trim the smaller half-square triangles so they measure 3½" square.
 
The picture below shows the general layout for the block. Notice all the diagonals go the same direction.
Let's start by putting together the middle section.
Sew two pairs of the half-square triangles together as shown. Set the seam and then press toward the grean triangle.
Now we can sew the pairs of half-square triangles to each side of the large half-square triangle.
Go slow as you sew over the seam intersections and make sure your seam is a scant ¼" so you don't chop off your points.
As you look at the wrong side of the block, press both seams to the left.
Okay, now our center section is complete.
Layout the remaining half-square triangles as shown below. Lay the right over the left and sew along the right edge
 
Press each of the seams towards the background triangle.
Sew the pairs together to make two rows of four half-square triangles.
Again press the seams towards the background triangles.
All we have left to do is sew the top and bottom sections to the middle section.
Sew slow and straight.
You'll find that the seams interlock, which will help you to match the seam intersections.
As you look at the wrong side of the block, press both seams towards the center of the block.
And wha-la we've finished another block!
Even though this block only uses two colors and one shape it's one of my favorites.
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