Cute quilt pattern, but I am no help with figuring it out. I'm with you esqmommy, too much math for me this early.

I think what she is saying is the smaller block is the square, that stays square. Then the larger block is cut on the diagonal into the triangles and sewn onto the sides to make the finished triangles for the sides. I couldn't say for sure, but, that is kinda what it looks like from the picture.

Edited to say ... Remember to match up you straight sides, then there wil be a dog ear hanging off in the middle. It is supposed to be like that, you can trim it off after you sew the other side on and press it so your seam is straight along that side. Press up and down ... no rubbing the iron around back and forth! Just put the ruler on the block and make sure you leave a full quarter inch seam. Just the dog ears, really need to be cut.

i agree with your premise on the light square having to be cut smaller then the dark square because that has to be cut according to triangle math of 7/8. i think the author addresses this in her pattern and thats why i asked does she start with a square and have you cut it into 4 triangles.

i don't know why you'd want to have one of the outside corner triangles off from the seam line.

how would you sew that triangle section into the next block when the edge isn't even with everything.

maybe you're thinking i want her to make a perfectly equal 4 patch and of course its not because the dark section will be bigger than the light.

Sewing the 2 HST to the first square shouldn't stretch as you are sewing with the grain, it will be when you put that finshed part on the bigger inside square that you are on the bias and have more of a chance on it stretching.

go to http://www.quilterscache.com

find the alphabetized list and click on the alamo. (under 'a')

the block is different, but it gives exact direction for this problem. if you follow their proportions, you will end up with the correct sizing and have your seam allowance. their solution to cutting is a great method that many of us have used with a lot of success. test it out.

editing here: remember - proportions only...not necessarily the same sizes.

go to http://www.quilterscache.com

look under Art Square in the patterns. It looks like the same method you are doing. You just sew one HST on the square then the other one.

zennia, that's perfect.

I was banished from my home for a few days--DH was painting the house, and I am pregnant, so he didn't want me breathing in the paint fumes. I came back, and here are ALL OF THESE SUGGESTIONS! Thank you!!! I have to admit, I was lost when I looked at the Alamo block instructions. I think I have to actually try it... I was really hoping Klue's first instructions would work-- they seemed easiest, but it doesn't sound like those will work... Going to try to follow step by step the Alamo instructions once I cut the fabric and I'll post my results. If you real quilters have any other thoughts, let me know. Thanks again!

Just saw zennia's post-- going to try that. Pretty sure I can follow those instrctions! Thanks again!

maybe this drawing will help?

you will have a tail/ear from the hst

please excuse the primitiveness of the drawings