How to Sew HST’s – Easy Half Square Triangles
Half Square Triangles (HSTs) are a quiltmaker’s best friend! They are a building block in lots of classic and modern quilts. Know how to calculate, cut, and sew them, and you’ll be on your way to designing and sewing your own quilts!
This method makes half square triangles two at a time. I like it because it doesn’t require sewing along a bias edge, which can stretch and warp as you sew, making a wonky block. So even if I only need 1 half square triangle, I’ll make two and save one for later. 🙂
How to calculate and cut HST’s
What size do you want your finished HST’s to be? Start with that number, and then add 7/8” or 1”. Add 7/8” to your finished HST number and if you sew them precisely, they will end up the required size exactly. More often than not, I’ll add 1” to the finished size so I can trim them up (just in case my stitching is less-than-precise).
Choose two fabrics. Cut two squares the required size (finished unit + 7/8” or 1”), one from each fabric.
How to Sew HST’s
Place the two squares right sides together. Then draw a line (any pencil or pen will do) diagonally from one corner to another. This is your cutting line, not your sewing line.
Sew 1/4” from each side of the drawn line. Easy, huh? If you don’t have a 1/4” foot for your sewing machine, you may want to draw two stitching lines 1/4” from either side of your cutting line to give yourself a guide.
Note: I am actually stitching a scant 1/4”. That is just my preference. It helps make up for the tiny bit of fabric loss when I press my seams to the side. I’m going to trim the blocks anyway, so they will be just the right size in the end.
Cut along the cutting line and press both blocks open.
Trim the blocks to the correct size, if needed, and cut off the triangle dog ears. Done!
Happy quiltmaking!
Disclosure: some of my posts contain affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of those links I may receive a small commission, so thank you for supporting SewCanShe when you shop! All of the opinions are my own and I only suggest products that I actually use. 🙂
I’ve read this before in many blogs/websites – This was the most clearly stated and shown! Thanks so much. I usually added the 7/8 but why not an inch evenly and make life simple??????
Thank you! I’m so glad you like my tutorial. 🙂
Will this work for not half squares, so for rectangles, like 4×5 blocks?
No, it will not. Trust me, I tried it already. 🙂
To make half rectangle blocks, stack the two equal rectangles together, both right side up. Cut from corner to corner. Then you may flip one over and line up the raw edges. It will seem strange, but the ‘fat’ end of one triangle will be sewn to the ‘skinny’ end of the other. Give it a try and you’ll see what I mean.
Caroline
Hello Caroline, I’m new at quilting and just last night made my first pinwheel block. I learned I was supposed to put both pieces of fabric together like you did but then, I sewed 1/4 inch all around. Then, I cut from corner to corner and voila! Four little HST. . Is there’s a particular reason you prefer the method you described? Btw- I look forward to your email every day😇
Hi Maria,
Thank you for reading my emails!
The problem with the method for making HST’s that you describe is that all of the edges of each HST are cut on the bias. This makes the pieces more prone to stretching and harder to piece together.
Of course, if you enjoy the method and do not encounter problems when sewing the HTS’s then do not let me stop you – I’m not the quilt police! ❤️
Caroline
Do you recommend an acrylic type template for trimming HST?
Absolutely! I LOVE my Bloc Loc rulers for trimming HST’S and flying geese: https://amzn.to/3gLppKe