🧵 Which Half-Rectangle Triangle Ruler is Right for You?

Half-rectangle triangles (HRTs) are like the elegant cousin of the half-square triangle: versatile, dynamic, and just a little more fussy. Unlike HSTs, HRTs don’t split perfectly down the center, so precision is key—and that’s where the right ruler makes all the difference.

There are three main types of HRT rulers: Trimming Tools, Cutting Tools, and All-in-Ones. Whether you’re a precision piecer or just trying to avoid that wonky block life, here’s a closer look at how they stack up.

✂️ Category 1: Rulers for Trimming HRTs

These rulers are designed to square up your HRT units after sewing, ensuring crisp points and perfect sizing. You’ll need a separate ruler or method to cut your initial triangles.

Bloc Loc HRT Ruler Set (2:1 & 3:1 ratios)

✔️ Built-in groove locks onto the seam for super-fast trimming

✔️ Sold in a set for left slanting HRTs and right slanting HRTs 

⚠️ Most expensive option on this list and must be paired with a separate cutting ruler

💡 Great if you already love Bloc Loc’s groove system

Creative Grids Half Rectangle Trim Tool (2:1 ratio)

✔️ One tool for both left- and right-leaning units

⚠️ Requires a separate cutting ruler

⚠️ Grid Lines take some getting used to

💡 Non-slip grip is helpful for quick trimming

✂️ Category 2: Rulers for Cutting HRT Pieces

These tools are used to cut your triangles before sewing. After assembly, you’ll still need a trimming tool to square everything up.

Creative Grids Perfect Rectangle Ruler (2:1 ratio)

✔️ Makes cutting mirror-image triangles a breeze

⚠️ Trimming required after sewing

⚠️ Cutting instructions start with a smaller base sized rectangle than all other tools on this list leaving less room to square up at the end.  Size up for room to trim.

💡 Can also be used for chevron or kaleidoscope designs

Quilter’s Select Twin Set 60° Rulers (2:1 ratio)

✔️ Cuts both left- and right-leaning triangles

⚠️ Requires a separate trimming tool

💡 Good choice if you already own a trimming ruler

✂️ Category 3: All-in-One Tools (Cut + Trim)

These rulers handle both cutting your triangles and trimming the final unit—saving time and reducing tool clutter. While the up-front price is higher, they’re often more economical than buying separate cutting and trimming rulers.

Deb Tucker’s Split Rects Tool

✔️ Cuts and trims HRTs in multiple sizes

⚠️ Has a steeper learning curve than other options

💡 Ideal for precision piecing and intermediate/advanced quilters

HuRTy 1 by Latifah Saafir Studios (2:1 and 6:1 ratios)

✔️ Cutting and trimming in one tool for both directions

⚠️ Premium price point

💡 Easy to read color-coded markings

💡 Online training videos 

💡 Offers unique 6:1 ratio not found in most other tools

HuRTy 2 (3:1 and 3:2 ratios)

✔️ All-in-one tool for uncommon ratios

⚠️ Premium price point

💡 Excellent for modern and improv layouts

HuRTy 3 (4:1 and 4:3 ratios)

✔️ Includes rare ratios with high precision

⚠️ Premium price point

💡 Best for adventurous piecers working with non-standard blocks

📊 Side-by-Side Comparison

🧵 Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all ruler for HRTs—but knowing what kind of piecer you are helps narrow it down.

• If you already have a favorite cutting method, a trimming-only tool may be all you need.  Our favorite is the Bloc Loc.
• Prefer the ease of cutting with a ruler designed specific to 1/2 rectangle triangles, and don’t mind  a separate tool for trimming later? Pair a cutting ruler with a trimming tool.  We didn't have a favorite here.  
• Want the best of both worlds? An all-in-one tool is totally worth the investment.  For us, The HuRTy rulers won hands down for ease of use and flexibility.  

We stock several of these rulers at West Valley Quilting—click here to shop.

Have questions about which ruler is right for you? Send us a message on Facebook, Instagram, or email us at info@westvalleyquilting.com—we’re happy to help!