Quilter's Math

Half-Square Triangles

Tired of paying for Thangles or specialty rulers? Want a quick and easy way to make HSTs? I first learned of this method on Nancy's Notions (page no longer available) but the math was never included. With some help from my darling husband (Stan), I was able to create a spreadsheet that did the math for me. All you will need is the ability to cut 2 strips of fabric (same width), sew a 1/4" scant seam and a 45° ruler - made by anyone. Directions and the math needed are available in my Excel Spreadsheet.

On Point Setting Triangles

Putting squares or blocks on point requires cutting a square of fabric and then sub-cutting on the diagonal: once for setting 2 sides and twice for settng 4 sides. The math is available in an Excel Spreadsheet for your use. Refer to PatchPieces.com for explanations and directions.

Flying Geese Blocks

Directions for making No Wasted Fabric Flying Geese and an Excel Spreadsheet with the math.

Enlarge or Reduce Blocks

Enlarge: ( [desired size] / [actual size] ) * 100
- Example: Desired Size is 12" and actual size is 6".
  - ( 12 / 6 ) * 100 = 2 * 100 = 200%
Reduce: ( [desired size] / [actual size] ) * 100
- Example: Desired Size is 6" and actual size is 12".
  - ( 6 / 12 ) * 100 = .5 * 100 = 50%

Notes

More Math Wanted?

What other math tools would help you? Let me know what you want and I'll do my best to accomodate.

How to Download Files

Having problems downloading my spreadsheets? Then right-click on a link above and select either "Save Link Target As" (Netscape users) or "Save Target As" (IE users).

Errors? Problems?

If you find your spreadsheet contains an error which looks like #NAME!, then the functions I'm using have not been installed.

According to the help system, you need to run the Setup program and install the Analysis ToolPak. After installation you need to start Excel and then enable the Analysis ToolPak by selecting TOOLS -> ADDINS and clicking on the box next to Analysis ToolPak. (In my version of Excel, the name of the installed file is called ANALYS32.XLL. If you don't find a similar file installed in your program directory, then you need to install it.)

Let me know if you find any problems or errors with these tools so I may correct them. When you write, please tell me:

what you entered as a value
what you saw on the screen or error messages
what kind of computer your are using (PC or MAC)
what operating system and version (Windows 95, 98, 2000, etc., or MAC OS/9, etc.)
what monitor settings you are currently using. (1024x768 for example)

Any or all of these items may be a factor in my ability to help you. Keep in mind: I do not have a MAC and I will only be able to offer suggestions (at best). My brother does own and use a MAC and I do run questions past him. His replies can be slow as he is a working doctor and not always able to answer my "support" calls right away. <ggg>

MS Excel Spreadsheet

These files were created using MS Excel 95 SR2 and are compatible with newer versions of the same software on a PC.

PS users not having MS Office (which includes MS Excel) or MS Works (which may include a stripped down version of MS Excel) might be able to use a freeware program I found (and not tested): Ability Spreadsheet, vers. 4.14.

MAC users -- I'm guessing at some possible solutions:

check your computer to see if it came bundled with AppleWorks; it may or may not work with MS Excel spreadsheets.
CalcWorks SE, vers. 1.7.8 is a shareware program ($15) designed to do spreadsheets; however it doesn't state whether it works with MS Excel or not.
Mariner Calc v. 5.3 clearly states it works with MS Excel spreadsheets and can be downloaded from their site after you register your name and email address; cost unknown.

Please let me know if you test any of these products and whether they work or not. Thank you.