The Square in a Square unit certainly looks easy enough – Just sew 4 triangles to a square. How hard could that be? Well – very. The center square is precision cut, and each triangle needs to be positioned perfectly to be sure the square is centered accurately. Ugh.
By making the precision cut easy and oversizing the triangles the Square in a Square can be made easily and accurately.
Here’s how: (click on the picture to see it without the words)
Square Squared – The top half of the ruler is used to cut the center square. The bottom half of the ruler is used to trim the finished unit. 
Size chart for side triangles. 
Strip size for each center square. 
Cut two squares. These are
2 3/4″ square. Then cut them in half diagonally so there are 4 triangles.
Right handed
Cut the center square by using the markings on the ruler. The
2 3/4″ strip is horitontal – placed with the fold on the left.
Line up the bottom of the ruler with the bottom of the strip.
Cut up the right side.
Next trim across the top 
ta da! 
Turn the trimmed sides so they line up with the 3″ lines 
Trim the last side – a perfect center square! 
Hey you lefties! Same instructions – you just place your strip vertically instead! 
All pieces right side up. And we’re ready to sew. 
Place triangle on square -RST (right sides together 
The square is precision cut (not oversized) and will not be trimmed down. Center the triangle so the overhang is the same on both sides – They re oversized so don’t stress! Stitch with the square on top so the 1/4″ seam is accurate 
First seam done. and yes, it’s now in the upper right – ugh. It’s ok – photo problem. 
place second triangle on the same way 
Stitch with square on top again. 
Press to triangles – Easy way to remember – whatever you are pressing to is on the top – seam horizontal. I spray with Best Press or Magic sizing then set iron on fabric to set the seams. 
Finger press. 
Turn unit around and finger press second triangle. 
Press 
Trim dog ears off each side. 
Ready for triangles 3 and 4! 
Triangle 3 – Stitch as before – square on top. 
Ready for #4 
Triangle 4 
Stitch as before – square on top. 
Press to triangles 
Set seams with iron 
Finger press then press flat with iron 
See the 3s beside the Xs (corners of the blue square)? Line those Xs with the corners of square and we’re ready to trim. 
Trim up the right side and across the top 
Turn the unit half way around so the cut edges line up with the
3 1/2″ lines and the Xs line up with the corners.
Trim sides 3 nd 4. 
voila! The perfect Square in a Square unit!
This is the first block in the Storm at Sea Quilt. Click HERE to get the FREE Storm at Sea pattern.
A little more info on the Square Squared ruler:
- Ruler size – 6 ½” x 12”
- Unit sizes – 6 size options from 1” finished units to 6” finished units
- Step by step illustrated instructions
- Instructions for left hand cutting and trimming
- Fine lines for high accuracy
- We have companion patterns – but you don’t have to use our patterns to use our tools. If the Square in a Square unit is in the pattern – just use your Square Squared ruler – fast, easy and super accurate!!
If you have any questions or need some help – just send an email to barbara@alleycatquiltworks.com – I’m happy to help!
Until next time,
Barbara
Barbara Dann
Alleycat Quiltworks
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Barbara Dann 