Two-at-a-Time QSTs
I love a good classic hourglass quilt and I simply adore the Ohio Star quilt block! One of the best parts about both classics is their use of quarter square triangles (QSTs). QSTs are so quick to make and once you get the hang of how the pieces line up (and seeing the possibilities for playing with your triangles), you’ll start looking for reasons to use quarter square triangles: they’re that much fun!
Looking for a screenshot friendly version to easily save to your phone’s camera roll or Pinterest? Scroll to the bottom of the post for my cheat-sheet version!
QSTs Two-at-a-Time: The Formula
If you're making QSTs Two-at-a-Time, you'll need (2) 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 1¼" to your desired finished size QST.
Finished QST Size+ 1¼" = Starting Square Size
I always trim my QSTs down to size (and I assume you do too): to factor in a little extra room for trimming, just add 1½" to your finished size and you'll be good to go!
Finished QST Size + 1½"" = Starting Square Size
QSTs Two-at-a-Time: Cutting Instructions
To make QSTs Two-at-a-Time, you'll need (2) same-size squares of different fabric.
| Finished QST Size | Unfinished QST Size | Starting Squares |
|---|---|---|
| 2" | 2½" | 3½" |
| 2½" | 3" | 4" |
| 3" | 3½" | 4½" |
| 3½" | 4" | 5" |
| 4" | 4½" | 5½" |
| 4½" | 5" | 6" |
| 5" | 5½" | 6½" |
| 5½" | 6" | 7" |
| 6" | 6½" | 7½" |
| 6½" | 7" | 8" |
QSTs Two-at-a-Time: Step by Step Instructions
"But, how do I make QSTs Two-at-a-Time?" you ask? Never fear, I've got you covered!
To start, make two HSTs using the Two-at-a-Time method: draw a diagonal line on the back of one of your squares, then place it on top of the other square right sides together (step 1). Sew a ¼" on either side of the line, then cut along the drawn line (step 2) and press. On the back of one HST, draw a diagonal line perpendicular to the HST diagonal seam (step 3).
Place the HST on top of the second HST, right sides together, making sure the HST seams are parallel to each other (step 4). Sew a ¼" on either side of the line then cut along the drawn line (step 5). Press and trim down to size as necessary: voila (step 6)!
QSTs 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:
Split QSTs: Variations on a QST Theme
If you want to make Split Quarter Square Triangles (or as I think of it “a QST-HST hybrid”), you can easily make them four-at-a-time: follow the instructions above to make two HSTs. Then grab two (2) squares that are your Finished block size + 1” and use one of them in place of the second HST in Steps 4-6 (and repeat with the second HST and square to make four Split Quarter Square Triangles). Note: the only thing to remember with Split QSTs is that half will end up being mirror images of the others!
