Alternate Flying Geese Instructions
I’ve had several requests for alternate flying geese methods in the Helen Quilt Pattern, and I’m happy to share a few options!
The flying geese method in the pattern is my preferred method and the one I’ll be demonstrating in next week’s video. However, if you prefer to oversize and trim your flying geese or use half square triangles (HSTs) instead, both of these alternatives will work within the pattern’s framework.
✂️ Option 1: Oversized Flying Geese (with Trimming)
While I prefer to make my flying geese to size, I totally understand the desire for a little extra wiggle room! If you’d like to make oversized flying geese and trim them down, here are the measurements you’ll need:
⭐ Smaller Stars:
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Cut (4) 2⅝″ squares from your feature fabric
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Cut (1) 4½″ square from your background fabric
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For extra trimming room: use (4) 2¾″ feature fabric squares and (1) 4¾″ background square
⭐ Larger Stars:
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Cut (4) 4⅛″ squares from your feature fabric
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Cut (1) 7½″ square from your background fabric
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For extra wiggle room: use (4) 4¼″ feature fabric squares and (1) 7¾″ background square
Use the same flying geese method shown in the pattern, then trim to the finished sizes listed in your pattern instructions.
🧵 Option 2: Replacing Flying Geese with Half Square Triangles (HSTs)
If you’re more comfortable working with HSTs instead of flying geese, that’s also a great option! Here’s how to make the switch:
⭐ Smaller Stars (HST Method):
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Cut (4) 2½″ squares from your feature fabric
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Cut (4) 2½″ squares from your background fabric
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Make HSTs using your preferred method, then trim to 2″ x 2″
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You’ll need 8 HSTs per star block
⭐ Larger Stars (HST Method):
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Cut (4) 4″ squares from your feature fabric
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Cut (4) 4″ squares from your background fabric
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Make HSTs and trim to 3½″ x 3½″
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Again, you’ll need 8 HSTs per block