Step by Step: 8-at-a-Time HSTs

I’ve been working hard behind the scenes on my second quilt pattern. It’s a really fun, block-based design, made up of mostly half square triangles. The throw size uses five different colors that you can mix and match to give sort of a coordinated-scrappy look, if there is such a thing! But that’s as many hints as I will give for now, start looking for sneak peeks on Instagram soon!

Before the pattern releases, I wanted to share my favorite time-saving tips, tricks and tools for making half square triangles (or HSTs, for short). The pattern provides direction on the 8-at-a-time method, but I wanted to give you a resource that goes a little bit more in depth, and that can help save you time trimming all those little squares!

Half Square Triangles: 8-at-a-Time Method

Supplies Needed:

2 squares of coordinating fabric

(The size of the squares depends on the size you would like the HST to be. I am using 5.5” square and trimming my HSTs to 2”)

Hera Marker, or other marking tool

Rotary Blade

Rotating Cutting Mat (Optional)

Straight Edge Quilting Ruler

Cleary Perfect Slotted Trimmer

(This is my go to ruler for trimming HSTs- it will save you so much time!)

Directions:

Step 1: Place two squares of coordinating fabric right sides together.

Step2: Using a Hera marker, mark an “X” across the top of your fabric

Step 3: Sew ¼ inch on BOTH sides of BOTH lines

Step 4: Using a rotary blade and ruler, cut horizontally, vertically, as well as along the lines that you drew with the Hera marker. This will leave you with 8 triangular sections.

*I like to do this on my rotating cutting mat but that is totally optional!*

Step 5: Using the slotted trimmer, find the size you would like your HST to be (in this case I am making 2” squares). Line up the dotted line with your seam line. Trim both sides along the ruler, as well as into the little grooves. (This will take care of any little dog-ears from your seam allowance.)