What Studio 180 Design Tools Should I start with?

 

As a Studio 180 Design Certified Instructor, I am asked many questions about the Studio 180 Design tools.  The number one question I’m asked is What Studio 180 Design Tools should I start with?

My response to this question is you should start with the essential tools. These tools are the Tucker Trimmer I, Wing Clipper I, and Square Squared tool.  The three tools will get you started with basic units that you will see in many quilt patterns and start most quilt projects.

Each tool is multisized with fine lines for accuracy. The tools come with detailed step-by-step instructions with illustrations that cover both Right and Left-Handed cutting and trimming. Additionally, there are cutting charts for all the units they make, so you need a specific finished size. This allows you to refer to the cutting chart to get the size of squares or strips you will need to make each unit.

Let me introduce you to these tools, starting with the Tucker Trimmer. 

The Tucker Trimmer, I feel, is one of the universal tools in the Studio 180 Design toolbox. This tool allows you to make precision Half Square Triangles, Combination Units, and Quarter Square units. There are three different Tucker Trimmers to choose from that will enable you to create various units. 

The Tucker Trimmer I can trim 11 different size units from 1” to 6 1/2”. This is great for making units under 6 1/2” in size.

Tucker Trimmer III trims 22 different unit sizes from 1” to 12 1/2”.  Recommend for anything over 6 1/2” in size.  I love using this tool for squaring up blocks and working with the larger Lemoyne Star blocks.

Now, if you have some oddball sizes, you may want to try the Tucker Trimmer II trims with ten different unit sizes from 3/4” to 5 3/4”; this is great for those special projects.

Now, not only can you trim your units with the Tucker Trimmer, you can use the Tucker Trimmer for Sub cutting units as well. Again, the thin lines and marking on the tools make it easy. 

The next tool I would recommend would be the Wing Clipper I tool.  This tool was designed to create traditional Flying Geese.  When constructing the Flying Geese, you will use the No-Waste Method.  The No-Waste Method allows you to make four geese at one time using just 5 squares. One large square becomes your large triangle (body), and four small squares become the eight side triangles (wings).  Once the Flying Geese are sewn, you will use the Wing Clipper tool to trim each to its exact size, with the seams going directly into the corners. Thus, each unit will be made quickly and accurately every time.

There are two different Wing Clipper tools Wing Clipper I and II.

Wing Clipper I trims ten units’ sizes from ½” x 1” to 5” x 10” finished size units, and the heights increase in half-inch increments.

Wing Clipper II is an in-between tool. Trimming down 9 additional sizes not covered in the Wing Clipper I.  Size Options ¾” x 1 ½” finished size units to 4 ¾” x 9 1/2" finished size units.

The final tool I consider an essential tool is the SquareSquared tool.  This tool was designed to simplify the construction process of the Diamond Square unit without using the paper piecing method.  We all know that the Diamond Square unit can be tricky to be accurate. But using the Square Squared tool, making each of the units oversized, and then trimming them down, you will have a perfect unit every time.  The Square Squared tool is an all-in-one tool that allows you to trim down those center squares to the ideal size, so you don’t have to do all the complex math.

The Square Squared 6” tool is precise for 6-unit sizes from 1” to 6” finished units.

The Square Squared tool is also available in the two other sizes.

Square Squared Half Inch is a new addition to the Square Squared Family. Provides you eight different size units from 1 1/2” to 8 ½” finished units in 1” increments finished diamond square units.

Large Square Squared has 12 different sized units, from 1” to 12” finished units.

These tools will give you proper grain lines on Unit Edges, with Minimal Waste in the Trash Can.

So, if you are just starting out with the Studio 180 Design tools, or even a beginning quilter, I recommend starting with one or all of these three tools first. The TuckerTrimmer, Wing Clipper, and Square Squared tools will get you started on the right track in your quilting perfection. 

If you are looking for more information on these tools, please check out the Studio 180 Design YouTube Channel for a Demonstration. I also teach these tools in my Precision Block Academy, an On-demand Video Course that will teach you how to use the Studio 180 Design tools.

Graceful Points QAL Block 3

Today is block 3 release day.  How is everyone doing on their First two blocks?  There are several beautiful blocks in our Graceful Points QAL Facebook Group.  There is still plenty of time to catch up if you are interested in getting started. Read all about Block One - Ohio Star Variations and Block 2 - Crowning Glory blog posts.  Remember the download are always available.

Block 3, also known as Blockbuster #4 - Capital T Variations, is made up of a combination of Flying Geese, Combination and Quarter Square Triangle units. We will be using the Studio 180 Design Wing Clipper® 1 and Tucker Trimmer® 1 which you can purchase from my website.

  

You will also be using 3 different colors, BG, C1, and C2 to make your units. 

Before we start, make sure you Download your Block 3, and Blockbuster Block #4 Instructions, remember both are required to make you block.

Please remember that the pictures used in this tutorial are for the 9" block for the Wallhanging.  Be sure to read the Downloaded Block Instructions to get the correct cutting and trimming sizes for the 12" block, which are indicated in (Blue) parenthesis. 

Capital T Variations

Unit A - Flying Geese units:

1. Gather 4 C2 (small) squares and 1 (larger) C1 squares. Please refer to Flying Geese portion of the cutting chart in your Block Instructions, Download.

2. On the wrong sides of the small squares, you will need to mark two lines each 1/4" away from the center diagonal, I recommend the Quilter's Magic Wand for this.

3. Position two C2 small squares on the diagonally opposite corners on a C1 Square.  Note: Nudge your small squares toward the center just about 3 or 4 threads from the raw edge of the larger square.  You may want to also pin these units in place.

4. Stitch on the lines, then cut apart between the lines of stitching. Pressing the seams toward the small triangles.

5. Position the remaining smaller squares on each unit, nudging the smaller squares just like you did before.

6. Stitch on the lines, then cut the units apart between the lines of the stitching on the center diagonal. Press the seam toward the small triangles.

Right Handed

Left Handed

 7. Position with the diagonal guide lies of the Wing Clipper® 1 with the seams of the Flying Geese unit.  You'll automatically be centering the tool over your pieced unit. Refer to your Block Instructions for Trim downsizes for your block size. Trim the sides and across the top. (Note: the trim size used in these pictures are for the 9" block only)

Right Handed

Left Handed

8.  Rotate your flying geese unit 180° and reposition your Wing Clipper® 1 to the align the previously trimmed raw edges with the proper size for your unit and the "X" at the top with the intersection of the seams.  (Note: the trim size used in these pictures are for the 9" block only)

9. Repeat using the C1 (small) squares and C2 (Larger) Squares to make the other flying geese units you will need according to your instructions.

Make 4 Unit A1 Flying Geese Units
Make 4 Unit A2 Flying Geese Units

Unit B - Combination Units

1. Gather (2) BG squares, (1) C1 Square and (1) C2 Square.

2. Mark two stitching lines on either side of the center diagonal line using your Quilter's Magic Wand on the wrong sides of the two C1 Squares.

3. Layer a marked C1 square on top a C2 square.  Making sure to line up all the edges and points.  

4. Stitch on the lines and cut down the middle and Press according to your instructions. Remember Don't trim these units down to size just yet.  We need to finish first.

5. Position your half square unit on top of a BG square with right side together.

6. Mark two stitching lines on either side of the center diagonal line using your Quilter's Magic Wand on the wrong sides of the two half square triangles.

7. Stitch on the drawn lines, and cut down the middle. Pressing according to your block instructions.

Right Handed

Left Handed

8.  Position the Tucker Trimmer over the combination unit, carefully aligning the diagonal sizing line with the stitched seam line of the fabric square. Referring to you block instructions for Trim downsizes for your block.  Trim up and across the top. (Note: the trim size used in these pictures are for the 9" block only)

Right Handed

Left Handed

 9.  Rotate the unit 180° and line up the Tucker Trimmer and trim the remaining sides. (Note: the trim size used in these pictures are for the 9" block only)

Make 4 Unit B combination units.

Unit C - Quarter Square Triangle Units

In both Block 1 and 2, we have made Quarter Square Triangles.  So, we should be getting the hang of making the units.  But here is one more quick walkthrough.  We will be making two-color quarter square triangle this time, and we only need one.  

1. Gather fabrics and follow the cutting chart on your Download Block Instruction sheet and cut all your squares for Unit C-Quarter Square Triangles.

2. Using your Quilter's Magic Wand, mark two stitching lines on either side of the center diagonal line on the wrong side of the C1 Square.

3. Position the C3 squares on squares on top of the other cut squares, as indicated in your Block 1 instructions.  Making sure to line up all the edges and points.  You may want to pin the units together in place for you to begin stitching.

4.  Cut down the middle and Press according to your instructions. Don't trim these units down to size just yet.  We need to finish first.

5. Next, position the two half square triangles unit together assuring the C2 fabric are the opposite of each other.

6. Using your Quilter's Magic Wand Mark two more stitching lines on the back of the one the half square triangles.  Stitch and Cut down the middle as we did before with the Half Square Triangles.

7.  Press the seams as indicated in the instructions. It is recommended that you spin your Quarter Square seams to make sure they lay flat. 

Right Handed

Left Handed

8. Position the Tucker Trimmer over the Quarter Square Triangle unit, carefully aligning the diagonal sizing line with the stitched seam line of the fabric square.  Trim up and across the top. (Note: the trim size used in these pictures are for the 6" block only)

Right Handed

Left Handed

9. Rotate the unit 180° and line up the Tucker Trimmer and trim the remaining sides. (Note: the trim size used in these pictures are for the 6" block only)

Make 1 Unit C Quarter Square units.

Block Assembly

To finish your Block 3, follow your Blockbuster page Download to make sure you lay out the units correctly.  Be sure to watch your unit placements, especially for the Quarter Square Triangles.

Again, I'm leaving the pressing to your preferences so you can either press your units open or to the side, so they nest together. I have supplied a pressing diagram that is located on the last page of the block 3 instructions.

Have fun making Block 3-Capital T Variation, and I hope you will share your photos in the comments below or on the Graceful Points Facebook Group.  

The next Block will be posted on Friday, March 15th.  We will be using the Square Squared® 6" tool.  You can purchase them on my website.

Have fun with the block and a great weekend!

Tina

"Designs to Inspire"

Graceful Points QAL Block 2

Wow, two week goes by so quickly, how did Block 1 for your Graceful points QAL go for you?  I hope you had fun. If you miss Block 1, you can catch up by reading all about it through the Graceful Points QAL Kickoff Post.

Well let's get started with Block 2- BlockBuster #2 – Crowning Glory.  We will be making the following block sizes depending on your quilt size; 9" Finished (wall) and the 12" Finished (King).  

This block consist of making a 3-colored Quarter Square Triangles and Shaded Four Patches for the corners.  So you will need your Tucker Trimmer® 1, and Quilter's Magic Wand, if you need these you can purchase them from my website.  The Shaded Four Patch uses the Shaded Four Patch Technique Sheet, which can be purchased through the Studio 180 Design website.  The Technique Sheet is great to add to your Tucker Toolbox.  If you don't have the sheet for this block that's fine I will be walking you through the process in the Block Instructions and this photo tutorial.



Also, you will need the following Fabric Colors: C1, C2, C3, and Background (BG) to make your Crowning Glory block. 

Before we start make sure you Download your Block Instructions, and Blockbuster Block, remember both are required to make you block.

Please remember that the pictures used in this tutorial are for the 9" block for the Wallhanging.  Be sure to read the Downloaded Block Instructions to get the correct cutting and trimming sizes for the 12" block, which are indicated in (Blue) parenthesis. 

Let's get started making our Crowning Glory Block

Suggested: Before we start making our units, use the Cutting Chart from the Download Block Instructions cut all your strips, rectangles, and squares you will need to make this block.

Unit A: Shaded Four Patch

We are going to make 4 Shaded Four Patch units.

1. Gather your (2) C2 Strips (Narrow Strips), (2) BG Strips (Wide Strips), and (2) C3 rectangles.

2. Take a Narrow Strip and Wide Strip and stitch them together along the long side.  Repeat with the other strips.  Press them toward the Wide Strip.

3. Pair the two pieced strips with right sides together with the narrow strips on opposite sides so each narrow strip faces the wide strip.

Right Handed

Left Handed

4. Cut the strips into sections, according to the width of your Narrow Strip. Refer to your Downloaded Block instructions for width.  Keep the cut paired pieces together after cutting.

5. Stitch the paired pieces together along one long side. Snip the seam allowance at the halfway mark between the two squares all the way to the seam.  Don't be afraid to cut the seam allowance.

6. Select a ruler with a 45° angle on it. Your Tucker Trimmer would work great for this, just use the Bold Common Diagonal Line that runs down the middle.  Use the 45° angle line, place on the edge of the unit and draw a 45° angle sewing line from the top to bottom. The line should be through the corner of the square where the stitching lines meet.  Repeat the process for a second drawing a 45° angle sewing line. 

7. Center the unit over your C3 rectangle and Stitch on both of the lines.

8. Cut Away from 1/4" from the two stitching lines on both sides.  Pressing toward the larger triangle.

Right Handed

Left Handed

9. Position the sizing diagonal of the Tucker Trimmer® 1 over the unit so that it lines up with the diagonal seam line of the Shaded Four Patch and assuring the common line passes through the corners of the square at the center of the unit.  Trim the first two sides, up and across. (Note: the trim size used in these pictures are for the 9" block only)

Left Handed

10.  Rotate the unit 180° and line up the Tucker Trimmer® 1 over the unit again, aligning the diagonals and cut sizes lines with the previously trimmed edges and trim the remaining sides. Making sure to line up the sizing diagonal aligns with the diagonal seam of the unit and the center corner of the square match up with the common diagonal line.  (Note: the trim size used in these pictures are for the 9" block only)

Note: if you need more help with making the Shaded Four Patch Units, please watch the this YouTube Video on the Shaded Four Patch.   

If you are Lefty, you can Download the Left Hand cutting instructions for your Shade Four Patch Technique Sheet 

Make 4 Shade Four Patch units.

Unit B: Quarter Square Triangles

These 3-Colored quarter Square Triangles are made the same way as we did in Block 1. Except for colors and cutting sizes.

11. Gather your (1) BG Squares, (2) C1 Squares, and (1) C2 Squares.

12. Mark two stitching lines on either side of the center diagonal line using your Quilter's Magic Wand on the wrong sides of the two C1 Squares.

13. Position the C3 squares on squares on top of the other cut squares, as indicated in your Block 2 instructions.  Making sure to line up all the edges and points.  

14.  Cut down the middle and Press according to your instructions, the C3 fabric. Remember Don't trim these units down to size just yet.  We need to finish first.

You will have two different sets of the Half Square Triangles, BG / C1, and C2 / C1 units. 

15. Next, position a BG / C1 on top of the C1 / C1 units, assuring the C1 fabrics are the opposite of each other.

16. Using your Quilter's Magic Wand Mark two more stitching lines on the back of the one the half square triangles.  Stitch and Cut down the middle as we did before with the Half Square Triangles.  Press the seams as indicated in the instructions. It is recommended that you spin your Quarter Square seams to make sure they lay flat. 

Right Handed

Left Handed

17. Position the Tucker Trimmer over the Quarter Square Triangle unit, carefully aligning the sizing diagonal line with the stitched seam line of the fabric square.  Trim up and across the top. (Note: the trim size used in these pictures are for the 9" block only)

Right Handed

Left Handed

9. Rotate the unit 180° and line up the Tucker Trimmer and trim the remaining sides. (Note: the trim size used in these pictures are for the 9" block only)

Make 4 Unit B Quarter Square units.

Block Assembly

To finish your Block 2 follow your Blockbuster page Download to make sure you lay out the units correctly.  Be sure to watch your unit placements, especially for the Quarter Square Triangles.

Again, I'm leaving the pressing to your preferences so you can either press your units open or to the side, so they nest together. I have supplied a pressing diagram that is located on the last page of the block 2 instructions.

Have fun making Block 2-Crown Glory and  I hope you will share your photos in the comments below or on the Graceful Points Facebook Group.  

The next Block will be posted on Friday, March 1st.  We will be using the Tucker Trimmer® 1 and the WingClipper® 1.  You can purchase them on my website.

Have fun with the block and a great weekend!

Tina

"Designs to Inspire"