Half Square Triangles Tutorial Part 4

Squares Technique #2

With the previous technique in tutorial part 3, we made one HST from a square.  However, what if you need more than one?  One solution is to make the square large enough so that both halves can be sewn to be the correct size for your pattern. To do this you must ensure that the seam allowance you add is sufficient for two triangles. You must add 7/8” to the measurement in order to allow two 1/4 inch seams on the diagonal.   So, cut 2 squares 3-7/8" from two different fabrics.

Draw a line diagonally from corner to corner on one square.

Place right sides together and sew 1/4" on each side of drawn line.

Cut apart on drawn line.

Now you have two HSTs.

Pros:
1.  No waste HSTs as both can be used in the current project.
2.  Do not have to handle bias edges.

Cons:
1.  You will have to draw a diagonal line down the center and if you are making a lot of squares this can be tedious.  You could use the Angler 2 to sew seams or mark your sewing machine bed.
2.  Need to trim dog ears after sewing.

Solutions:
1.  If you need a lot of HSTs, try using paper piecing method, grid piecing method, or bias strips method.  These topics will be discussed in future tutorials.
2.  You still need to sew accurately for these to be the right size.  In the next totorial, I have a fix for this.

-------------------------- Type-u-later, Tea in MO http://www.teaquilts.com