Half Square Triangles - HST's

Here at Patch we love this method of making half square triangles for our projects. Its not new, we haven't invented it,  it can be found in various instructions across the interwebs, but here is the tutorial for you, so you dont have to search any further.

 

First of all you will need to cut out your squares of fabric to the size necessary.

If you want a HST block that will be 4.5"...you need to cut 2 squares at 5".

Pair up 2 squares - usually one light and one dark, or one main and one background fabrics.

Draw a diagonal line across each pair. You will cut this line so you dont need to use a disappearing pen.

Next you need to sew 1/4 inch either side of the drawn line.

 

 

Finally cut along the line with scissors or rotary cutter to make 2 HST blocks.

Carefully press open. I prefer to press my seams open on almost all quilting projects but you can press the seam to the darker fabric side.

When ironing, be careful not to drag the iron across the fabric as this could give you wonky triangles!

Trim the 'ears' - these are the little edges that will extend beyond the pressed block. getting rid of these will reduce bulk.

 

You now have a lovely HST block to use in your projects. The heart block tutorial that was free in the February newsletter, and can also be found on our blog, uses HST's.