Accuquilt HST die problem
 

I am making a quilt that calls for lots of half square triangles that should have a cut finish of 4 1/2" and 4" for a finished size. They are to be used in conjunction with 4 1/2" cut size ( 4"finished size) squares which I have cut out using the accuquilt square die .

HOWEVER, the square die cuts an accurate 4 1/2" square but the HST die will not make a 4 1/2" triangle UNLESS you use a Very, very skimpy scant 1/4" seam. I am familiar with using scant 1/4" seams, but this requires a scant, scant 1/4" seam to make the block a 4 1/2" triangle that will line up properly with the square cut using the accuquilt die.

I can use the next size up HST die, and then square it up to the correct size needed, but then it really negates the need for using the Accuquilt, as it winds up taking even longer.

Have any of you had a similar experience with these dies?

Most of the die cuts need scant seams with accuquilt dies. There is no predicting which ones will be a true 1/4". I'm glad your 4 1/2" square die cuts properly! As much as those dies cost, I hoped their seam allowance was accurate, but alas.... hit and miss.

I would agree that Accuquilt is more scant 1/4" . I always use it once and see how it goes together (especially on those BlocksOnBoard) so I also make sure I'm getting the pressing right.

Measure the blade distance from one to the other. If a true size then your fabric may be stretching while cutting. Any roller even a rotary blade will push the fabric forward a smidge. Try putting a piece of paper on top of the die and then the fabric. It worked for me. Be sure your fabric is going in the roller at a slight angle. Most of the new dies will be angled but some older ones are straight on the die and you have to angle the die.

A very very important detail is to place the fabric with the length of grain perpendicular to the label on the die. Then have the label facing your tummy when you cut. This keeps the fabric from stretching when being cut. I was having problems with the Crazy Quilt die and guess what?? I wasn't paying attention to the length and cross grain when I cut. Here is a page of tips on their site: https://www.accuquilt.com/media/refc...Tips-QQZ08.pdf

I was watching the webinar this morning and Pam Heller is adamant that all the dies are set for a full 1/4 inch seam. It you do not cut on the straight of grain, it can cause your fabric to stretch and it snaps back when cut. Also, if you use a mat too big for the die or even what you are cutting can cause a bad cut because the larger mat can move the fabric. The only time you don't use the straight of grain is with the strip dies.
I had problems cutting my hexagons until I started watching their videos.
If you are on Facebook they have some great videos. Every Wednesday at noon Central time they broadcast live on Facebook wth a new thing.
Just FYI - I do not work for Accuquilt or have any vested interest. I am just a huge fan.

Also, if you are cutting with folded fabric, then make sure the fold goes through the machine first.

Good tips in the above posts.

What is the measurement on the die from the dog ear point out to the edge? 1/4 inch or less? Be sure you are placing enough fabric over the die blade edge. I miss sometimes and have short cuts on pieces.

It's a good idea to check the dies when you get them. They can be returned or exchanged if there is any issue. I have always sewn with 1/4 inch seam on all pieces. Fabrics are starched and pressed before using. Hope that helps!

I've had the "scantiness" of those seams pull apart in a quilt....that had been quilted.....I pulled it together as best I could and zig zagged over it.

Good info!
 

I will have to pay more attention to my length of grain orientation! Thanks!

Thank you all for your suggestions. I do load the fabric length of grain into machine. My fabric has a half an inch extra over die cut lines. I have looked at all of your suggestions and checked. The only thing left I thing is the die itself. I had a 5" square die that I discovered was off by 1/8" inch. It measured 5 x 4 7/8" as opposed to 5 x 5. This is a double stack half square die.
It measures 4 1/2" wide by 10 3/8" long, including the seam allowances.

I have not tried the paper trick. I will cut another set of triangles later today and use the paper to see if it helps. Will let you know if it does.

You can cut just the paper to check the exact measurement the die is cutting. If a true measurement then it's the fabric stretching, old mat, or could be low quality fabric. Usually it's the old mat that messes me up. Just like a rotary blade, the mat has to be changed after so many cuts.