Two-at-a-Time HSTs
The Half Square Triangle (HST) is, without a doubt, one of the most versatile building blocks of patchwork. Flip through any classic quilt block book and you’ll start seeing them almost everywhere (same goes for contemporary quilt designs!). When I started quilting, I made each HST one by one, cutting out the triangles needed and then sewing them together along their diagonal edge. As I started quilting more and more I discovered that you can make more than one at a time (cue the brain exploding emoji).
When it comes to marking lines, I love to use Clover’s Chacopen Soluble Eraser Pen for light colored fabrics and General’s Pastel Chalk Pencil in White for my darks. And if I’m being extra careful and am taking the time to pin my squares together, these Clover Patchwork Pins are my all time favorite.
If you’re looking to make Four or Eight at a Time, I’ve got the math with step-by-step instructions here:
HSTs Four-at-a-Time
HSTs Eight-at-a-Time
Looking for a screenshot friendly version to easily save to your phone? Scroll to the bottom of the post for my cheat-sheet version!
HSTs Two-at-a-Time: The Formula
If you're using the Two-at-a-Time HST method, you'll need two same-size squares of different fabric. The "official" math (or what I call the in-a-perfect-world-where-I-don't-make-mistakes math) states that you add ⅞" to your desired finished size HST:
Finished HST Size + ⅞" = Starting Square Size
I always trim my HSTs down to size (and I assume you do too). The rule of thumb to have enough wiggle room to trim is to just add 1" to your finished size (or a ½" to your unfinished HST) and you'll be good to go!
Finished HST Size + 1" = Starting Square Size
HSTs Two-at-a-Time: Cutting Instructions
To make HSTs Two-at-a-Time, you'll need (2) same-size squares of different fabric:
| Finished HST Size | Unfinished HST Size | Starting Square Size |
|---|---|---|
| 2" | 2½" | 3" |
| 2½" | 3" | 3½" |
| 3 | 3½" | 4" |
| 3½" | 4" | 4½" |
| 4" | 4½" | 5" |
| 4½" | 5" | 5½" |
| 5" | 5½" | 6" |
| 5½" | 6" | 6½" |
| 6" | 6½" | 7" |
| 6½" | 7" | 7½" |
HSTs Two-at-a-Time: Step by Step Instructions
"But, how do I make HSTs Two-at-at-Time?" you ask? Don't worry, it's easy!
To start, draw a diagonal line on the back of one of your accent squares, then place it on top of a background square right sides together (step 1). Sew a ¼" on either side of the line then cut along the drawn line (step 2). Press and trim down to size as needed. And, voila!
HSTs Two-at-a-Time: Screenshot-able Cheat Sheet
Screenshot these slides to save to your phone’s camera roll (or to Pinterest!) for easy and convenient future reference:
HSTs Two-at-a-Time: The Perfect Pattern
Looking for a fun pattern that makes HSTs Two-at-a-Time? My Weaver’s Square Quilt is just the ticket! And bonus: it also makes HSTs Four-at-a-Time so you can give both methods a try :)
Looking for a pattern that's at the intersection of straightforward and speedy? Weaver's Square is just the ticket! Big and bold, its woven geometric pattern is just a trick of the eye: it's actually made up of straightforward strip piecing, a couple HSTs, and two Herringbone style blocks. AKA it sews up in a snap!
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