Half Square Triangles (or HSTs) are one of the most common and versatile blocks used in quilting. While they may be popular, they can seem a little intimidating if you’ve never sewn one before. There are many different ways to make these blocks; today I’ll share with you the method I find to be the easiest and widely used. Plus, download our free Coats & Clark Half Square Triangle Quilted Pillow pattern here. Supplies Coats & Clark Half Square Triangle Quilted Pillow pattern Ruler (you can use any ruler, but you may find a see-through quilting ruler to be helpful, especially when squaring up the blocks) Pair of scissors Fine point pen for marking pieces Fabric in various colors or prints (choose fabrics in similar weights and fiber content for best results) making the half triangle square (hst) prepare your fabric 1. HSTs can be made in any size, but when you’re cutting your fabric or selecting pre-cut quilting squares it’s important to remember that your finished block will be approx 1” [2.5 cm] smaller once it’s completely finished. These blocks are a great way to use up scraps and leftovers from other projects! 2. Place 2 squares with the right sides together and wrong side facing out. Using a ruler, draw a line from corner to corner diagonally across one of the squares with a fine tip pen or marker. A water or heat soluble pen works great for this too! This is a guideline for sewing which you will cut along next, so it will not be visible once you are done. sewing the hst 3. With your sewing machine, stitch ¼” [0.6 cm] away from diagonal line on either side. I’ve used a contrasting thread here to better show you the technique, but it’s always best to choose a colour of Coats & Clark™ Dual Duty XP™ All-Purpose Thread that matches your project. 4. Next, cut along the drawn diagonal line, giving you 2 HSTs!. 6. Trim the seam allowances at each corner to square up your piece. 7. And there you have your first 2 HSTs. I hope this has helped take some of the mystery out of how those perfect triangles in nearly every quilt are made—have fun trying out your new super skill! download our free Coats & Clark Half Square Triangle Quilted Pillow pattern here
