😎 HOW TO MAKE A HALF SQUARE TRIANGLE ✂️ - 10 WAYS TO MAKE AN HST

The Half Square Triangle, also known as HST, is essential to know as a quilter. Throughout the years, many quilters have come up with new methods to make these blocks faster, or to improve accuracy. Here are 10 popular HST methods. I’ll show how to make them, where they are best used and what you need to watch out for.
Tools Used:
½" Ruler
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¼" triangle
geni.us/zoao (amazon)
Easy Angle Triangle Ruler
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HST Paper 2"
geni.us/oGhm5 (amazon)
HST Paper 3"
geni.us/X5A8sAjv (amazon)
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SEWING SECRETS - BREAKING THE QUILTING CODE - How many can you hack?
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Olfa 60MM rotary cutter geni.us/hbmq3 (amazon)
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[@JustGetitDoneQuilts]

Hello Everyone 😊. I’ve been spending the week with my parents and my regular video editing equipment is still at home. But I am happy to say I managed with what I have…maybe a day late but it’s uploaded. I know we all have HST’s to make. Use this guide to evaluate the various techniques and use the one that will work best for you. Grab your coffee and enjoy 😊

[@rhondaschellin8878]

It's very nice that you get to spend time with your parents! What we all took for granted pre 2020 is now a luxury! I lost my mother in 2020 but fortunately she was in care at home so we were blessed!!❤️

[@rebeccafoster-faith6647]

Family come first. Always.

[@m53goldsmith]

I love your tip for how to use the "waste" from the snowballed HST. I have seen many videos where the presenter throws away lots of little triangles that, if sewed on the second line at the time, could have been used in borders or other blocks. It is *so* much easier to sew that second line before cutting apart than it would be to track and sew the little pieces and much more efficient use of fabric and money to make use of those so-called "waste" pieces than throwing them away. One of my favourite things about your channel is how *not* to spend money on things we don't need (like dollar-store hacks) so we can spend it on more fabric instead!! Thanks ;-)

[@sguhl4089]

Spending time with your parents is such an important thing to do! I wish I had had more time with mine. Hoping you (and they) are doing well. Thx for making this video. Great info

[@pamvogelsang8135]

So many methods! Thanks!

[@ecoquilting7077]

I think one of the greatest tips in here is the one about making your HST units a little bigger and trimming them to perfect!

[@barbararowe771]

I first picked up the over-sizing method from Studio 180/Deb Tucker, where that’s her approach to many blocks. Making larger & trimming down changed my quilting life.

[@pst47wings]

Agreed! I have started doing that and it makes life so much easier 😁

[@pegasusquilts]

I hate doing the trimming, it takes time and effort. But it is SO worth it.

[@madhavidharankar]

@Barbana Even I picked it up from her. Even she has amazing videos n tips.

[@grandmalovesmebest]

Definitely! Startng out i bought a sizzix cutter and all the dies were exactly the right size, but i cant sew an exact scant qtr inch from one end to the other, consistantly, to save my life! Now, as i love hsts, using charm packs and then cutting then down is way better for me.

[@IRISHLASS273]

Karen, recently whilst watching another quilter showing how to make a difficult block. I read one of the comments it was from a new quilter who didn't have a money to spend on "specialty" rulers I left a reply telling her to head over to your channel where she would find a mine of information and now here you are with a new video on making HSTs Thank you.

[@carmenbailey1560]

This is one of those videos that you need to repeat watching, again & again & again. Thanks for sharing 👍❤️😊

[@smathykins]

Love your term “fiddly “. That’s how I feel about sewing together triangles and small squares. 😂😂

[@denisestilling2810]

The accordion HSTwas unique to me. Thanks for sharing.

[@elisebeaudoin208]

The quilt with all those solid colours HSTs is so full of joy!

[@barbararowe771]

I so prefer perfect HSTs, so no bias for this girl. But that method at the end! Holy cow! Well done Eva & Karen! Thanks, as always.

[@ecoquilting7077]

Wow, yes! #5 for quantity, love it! And that accordion thing is amazing! And I loved getting some more glimpses of your creations, Karen. Hey I have a tip for skipping the math for those who aren't so mathy: Use 4-squares-to-an inch graph paper, draw your finished shape, in actual size, then add a 1/4" all around... then you can just measure any given line in your drawing with your ruler to get the size. Draw several per page (remembering you are drawing a picture of your uncut fabric- a cutting diagram, not a drawing of your finished pattern). or draw just one, add just a dab of math, a simple multiplication. Use this method for anything that confuses you about the geometry of any block and you will be amazed at what you can figure out all on your own!

[@KnitzyKitzy]

Very helpful. I had never heard of the accordion method before!

[@countrymama2839]

"Wr call that an HST also, just to confuse new quilters." Love it! Very helpful info! HSTs look like they wouldn't be that hard, but there's more math involved than I expected.

[@quiltybee]

It might be time to talk about heavy pre-starch! Its the only way to manage those bias HSTs. Love your videos!

[@68carriet1]

Would love to see more like this with the various ways to make blocks. There are so many methods out there and I appreciate how you explain things!!!!! Glad you are back!

[@JustGetitDoneQuilts]

I have already made a flying geese one so check that out

[@suelargen6702]

I am intrigued by the accordion method! I must try to teach it to a class when we finally open up after lockdown. Thank you very much for your inspirational videos!

[@AnnLu8026]

It finally makes sense why sometimes everything goes wonky when I'm using HST, the quick 8 method. I got frustrated because I was so careful and still had trouble. Blast those bias edges!

[@ceciliavarga1734]

Welcome back with tips and tricks! Hope this means you are doing well! Take care and kiss for Mando

[@debbiebarnett1920]

Going to have to watch this a few times, because I did not know there was that many ways, and by the end I forgot what the others were. Making them bigger and trimming definately saves your sanity!

[@cherylgates7848]

HST's, the bane of my quilting repertoire. I think that might change after watching this. Love your videos and your approach to quilting and life in general. The accordion method is intriguing, thanks for the link so I can get the scoop and make HSTs the joy of my quilting life, lol.

[@aleeshak1167]

That accordion method blew my mind!!!! Just wow.

[@rhondaschellin8878]

💃💃Yippee!!!! 💃💃 Another video!! Especially on HSTs! I'm "okay" on them, but I want to "master" them. (Just like flying geese, which is on my goals to do in my bullet journal!) I'm going to start working on them more on the charity baby quillts I'm making next. Good practice and good deed at the same time.😁 Until you, I did not realize that all of the blocks were cut on the bias with 4 at a time! I thought it was just ME messing them up!! That was EARLY in my quilting. (Only been at it 1 1/2yrs)I have tried the 8 at a time, but I don't often need THAT many of the same kind. LOL😂 You show SO many methods I've never heard of!! Anyway, I love you keeping me company during the day! Thanks for your hard work getting these videos out! Hugs and also kisses for Mando! 😘

[@JustGetitDoneQuilts]

🤗🤗🤗

[@patphares6258]

Karen… two years after initial posting…. you are a delight! Projection and content are superb. ❤

[@robynw6307]

Method 10 is INSANE. Would never have thought that would work. Amazing. Heading off to watch Eva Paige's video as soon as this is finished.

[@grandmalovesmebest]

Im listening to you while making omelets. Suddenly i hear you talking about square roots! And im thinking, hey, ladies who never learned to read and write made quilts. When did it get so complicated?😄😄😄

[@JustGetitDoneQuilts]

They made do with the tools that they had. They figured it out and got it done ✅

[@nancycox3318]

Thanks for these great tips - the accordion HST blew my mind...I went and watched the video. I'll have to give this a try.

[@JustGetitDoneQuilts]

The ruler makes a big difference too trimming those tales when you trim the HST

[@gibsonmoore6784]

Hello Nancy

[@deborahwork9773]

Very clear and concise. Thank you for the information.

[@emiliegoethals3769]

that accordion method looks interesting. I will try it out for sure.

[@AnitaSouthall]

First time I've seen this one

[@angelabatterman6381]

Wow talk about blowing my mind while watching these. Great info, I bought an easy angle triangle ruler ages ago. Using it made my mind into mush, you saved me with this video. I can use it now.

[@JustGetitDoneQuilts]

Glad it was helpful!

[@margaretbaker623]

Hi Karen 🌻 Thank you for the detail. I enjoyed your slower delivery - it let my brain keep up with what you were saying!! 😂⚘

[@ShirleyDeeDesigns]

Wow I never heard of the accordion method! You learn something new every day!

[@AnitaSouthall]

Me either, one to add to my scrappy sewing and cutting days

[@jojomontgomery7119]

I have the clearly perfect slotted trimmer, and I love it. Once you can come to the US, I am sure you won't be disappointed.

[@notesfromleisa-land]

Thank you for *exposing* the bias on the edges for the 4 at a time method and tube method. I have strong negative feelings about this method and appreciate that you panned it! Eva Page's method is cool and I stumbled upon that prior. However, if I need anything that scrappy I'll simply insert an ice pick in my temple. I have recently had to deploy this for a quilt that I'm making. I like to figure out the quickest most accurate way that best leverages my time. Here's what I worked out for my project which required hourglass (for Ohio Star) and HST's (in a compound block similar to your shaded 4 path genius hack but the my outside block is an HST!) I would like to share with your viewers to demystify the math and hopefully add to the knowledge base here. As you demonstrate in your video, I want to stress for 8 x (a/k/a Magic 8 method): Cut the bi-lateral cuts first (rotating maps have great middle sections with the diagonal and 90 degree lines). They require the most accuracy and WITHOUT shifting. The diagonal lines are already snugly encased in stitching lines. HST Measurements: Cut 2 squares as follows Pure Math: Finished unit (FU) + 7/8" Trim down Math (for mere mortals): FU + 1" Example: Finished HST unit = 3" Cut 2 squares : FU + 1" or 3 + 1 = 4" squares needed. Use your favorite trim down method I like using the triangle method--You can use your square ruler. Just put the side measure for your CUT size on the seam line. (e.g. if you are making a 1.5" HST, your trimmed unit will be 2"...that is side measurement that you will find on your ruler side and place on the seam line.) I have found the Antler Designs Simple Folded Corner ruler to be an invaluable aid as it has 45 degree lines at every 1/4 inch. QST Measurements (for hourglass): QST's are comprised of 2 HST's. As there is an addition of 2 more seams, the math is a wee bit different. Cut 2 squares as follows Pure Math: Finished Unit (FU) + 1.25" Trim Down Math (for mere mortals): FU + 1.5 Example: Finished QST unit = 3". 3" + 1.5 = 4.5" squares needed. Adapting to Magic 8 Method. Not mysterious! We are simply taking 4 cut units and placing them in one square 2 rows x 2 columns. Therefore, take your measurements that you come up with above and multiply by two! Voila! You have your square dimensions and modest trim room to boot. If you feel like you need wider guard rails, then add another 1/4" to the Trim down math for each. To wit: Magic 8 HST: FU = 3" Squares = 3 + 1 = 4. 4 x 2 = 8" square pairs needed. Magic 8 QST: FU = 3" Squares = 3 = 1.5 - 4.5 = 9" square pairs needed.

[@AnnLu8026]

THANK YOU so much for this explanation of the math! I've tried to figure it out but it made my head spin!❤❤❤

[@notesfromleisa-land]

@@AnnLu8026 My head spun and smoke came out of my ears...but I made myself do it!

[@michellecornum5856]

YAY!!! I think I found my HST!! I have seen many of these done -- by my sister -- and I found them hard and nightmarish. THank you for this!

[@PeggySue-RL]

You so inspired me! I found a top was made by my older sister my mom n myself in the early 1960’s. I found the top in my sisters things n had it long arm quilted in about 2010. I started putting the Wright single fold pink binding on it n it went away. Last week I found it n had two sides of binding to hand stitch down. On august 11,2021. I just got it DONE. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR VIDEOS

[@sewesme4866]

You are truly the BEST OF THE BEST quilting teachers with the most Amazing Videos!!! Every time I watch your videos I learn so much and I'm incredibly encouraged! Thank you so much for all that you do for us and for being so sew selfless in all your tips!!!!!

[@JustGetitDoneQuilts]

Thank you so much 😊

[@terylyn2]

Thanks so much, I was looking for help with half square triangles using strips. This is perfect, I am saving for next time I need and forget how to do it.

[@christines1924]

Thank you for all the math equations!!! I was geeking out 😂 I will never do a bias sewing edge, but I still liked seeing all the methods collated in one place.

[@JustGetitDoneQuilts]

You are so welcome!

[@TrudySpears]

The accordion method just blew my mind! I've never seen this done, but the technique would be a time saver! I'll go check out Eva's video! I love all your tips, tricks and strategies!

[@TheBluestar54]

13:03

[@deehox7167]

Wow the 4 at a time way of cutting is such a great idea. I always cut diagonal first and wondered why they did not always come out equal! Now I know...THANKS!!

[@DLRudder]

the accordion 🪗 took my breath away! ooooh aaaahh 🔺🔻🔺🔻🔺🔻

[@sharontuch3405]

Not sure how many times I’ve watched this over last year or sew! 😂always need a re fresher! Glad you also go up to next inch! That 7/8’s gets to me!! Lol 🤗

[@JustGetitDoneQuilts]

I know what you mean

[@margaretlowans8429]

Karen, Jenny at Missouri Star uses that triangle trimmer regularly so you might get it there. I like the accordion method though it took a few run throughs to workout how! Thanks for showing me 😁😁😁

[@cindymatthews8757]

Wow! Who knew there were so many different ways to make HSTs. The accordion method looks intriguing. Thank you, Karen, for all of your wonderful videos. 😊

[@JustGetitDoneQuilts]

It is isn't it

[@maureenkomperda3421]

Really complete guide to HSTs Karen. Maybe you can continue your shapearama video with sewing circles. I know many with a sew phobia of that 🔴🟠🟡🟢🔵🟣 Great job!

[@shirleyhanson6132]

Thanks, Karen, for " tips, tricks, and strategies " that WORK!

[@TamiLee-cm2of]

Thank you so much for the tips! Especially the 'add one inch instead of 7/8' on two of the methods. 7/8 is too fiddly for me as well. I want to try the snowball method. Less waste = Less scraps being added to Mt. Scrapmore!

[@GodBlessUtoo]

Lol 😆 Love “Mt. Scrapmore”!!

[@shelleylyall4144]

Just love your videos’, who knew there were so many ways in making HST !!

[@kshav62]

Thanks for this! I already knew how to sew most of these methods but didn’t know hot to figure out what size you needed to get the finished hst!

[@mambakind]

I'd give two or three thumbs' up for this one, Karen.

[@donnapatterson2799]

Just love watching your videos. They are very helpful. May you have a wonderful 2022.

[@karenhickey3377]

I’m a newbie to quilting. I had no idea there were so many different ways to make hst!! Wow! Thank you 🙏

[@JustGetitDoneQuilts]

It amazing how quilters have thought creatively for so many situations

[@myrahaws5148]

I have never seen the according method. Fascinating. Thanks so much. HST's are one of my favorite building blocks. They are so versatile and the designs are endless.

[@valerielapointe3213]

Thank you for another great video. I purchased the Clearly Perfect slotted trimmer from Missouri Star a few years ago and love it. I would not do an HST without it. It's an investment I'm happy I made.

[@EstrafaDC]

Howdy Karen! Hope you are well. KZbin is now auto-playing your videos for me LOL. Anyway, thankful to have stumbled across this old gem. That accordion method looks insanely interesting. Thanks for all you do!

[@JustGetitDoneQuilts]

It’s a fun one

[@TheNakedEwe]

My first quilt, back in 1996, was a queen size, all 2 in finished HSTs made from multiple bias strips and individually cut. It’s still in a bag in the basement I think. I might have finished 100 squares by the time I gave up. I’m amazed I’ve been quilting for 25 years now. Years ago, I drafted various HST pages to print on 11x17 paper. I use the entire sheet or cut off the bits I need for a project. A small stitch length makes taking the papers off easily.

[@marilynhardman5239]

An amazing amount of hints here! I’ll try that accordion method, hey it’s only fabric after all! 😀

[@aristaniforth4267]

This was right on time! I was just thinking about making my scrap mountain into an hst quilt :) great info, thank you 🙏

[@IRISHLASS273]

I made a scrap quilt which required a LOT of HSTs. Laying it out on the floor I knew something was wrong couldn't figure it out. Finished it. Then saw my mistake. I was using Autumn colours. I had sewn most of the orangey coloured HSTs on one side. All I could do was laugh.

[@laurawilliams8952]

Ooh can’t wait to watch this!

[@maryleephilp5779]

Another great video. I always learn something new with each one I watch. Thanks 😊 for being such an amazing person.

[@susanbusby46]

Fantastic information, can’t do math, now eager to try host now. You speak so clearly and love your accent❤

[@caroldeking1050]

Super video on HST making versions. Enjoy the commentary cuz it's truthful & not trying to sell a product. Plz keep up the great work.

[@johannaduck7264]

Fan-tas-tic! Thanks for showing this HST Block study. Greetings from Brazil

[@issa32065]

I personally use the tube method mostly, but I have the HST quilt in a day ruler

[@memere4137]

Love your tutorials, please continue as I believe your videos are probably the best yet….

[@pst47wings]

Thanks for sharing all those methods!!

[@theresafinn4257]

Thee last method was verrrry interesting. I’d do it hysterical for the fun of it.

[@EJsDaughter]

Great information!

[@lhwk1382]

Just awesome! Thank you so much!

[@conqueringmountscrapmorewi2509]

Very cool video! Thank you for sharing!

[@bettycesky4947]

So many choices! Thank you very much!

[@pamelavance648]

This was fantastic info

[@suethomas3310]

Just a compliment for you. Your skin looks terrific.

[@kristinpoturalski1651]

OMG love your HAIR!! 🥰🥰

[@denahillis5201]

Love this video! Thanks

[@melaniemcneil407]

I shared the link with my guild members. I've tried several of these and usually prefer to just make them the correct size one at a time (no trimming if you're reasonably accurate), but it's good to have more in the tool box. thanks.

[@eh7574]

Great video on HST. Thank you and thanks for the links.

[@franbender564]

Thank You these are great tips !

[@livingweirdestherc6644]

Thanks for sharing these methods :)

[@blairseibert1778]

I've been watching and learning from you for the last year. I have never seen anyone talk about the accordion method of HSTs. Brilliant. Thank you for sharing what you learned from Eva.

[@deliad8826]

Love your practical approach Karen. Truly appreciate your style.

[@gramma2twinz]

Excellent, as always! I would be interested in a video on how to deal with seaming HSTs together...any tips for reducing bulk....ways to make them play nicely on the back.

[@daleodberg6714]

Brilliant, thank you.

[@cindymcfarland4686]

Very interesting episode! Thanks for all you do!

[@sunflowerterry]

Great info. So many different methods.

[@Holalindaw]

Thank you!

[@notsosassymarian]

Thanks for sharing all the methods, with your details - the highs and lows, so to speak! That accordion method is magical. I need an assortment of HST for project I'm hand piecing, it's perfect. Thank you!!

[@Marlenemaise72-cc2dt]

Okay I sew want to learn these HSTs are awesome!!!!❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@LawandaFinch]

Love your videos!

[@cindywoelky7267]

Great video for HST's!! Thank you.

[@Kriaraki1971]

Wonderful video!

[@sef7833]

Thank you! 🤗💙

[@cathybroadwood6938]

Excellent, as usual, Karen! Clear and informative. Thanks 😊

[@davidhatfield5714]

One of your best and most helpful videos! Thank you!

[@joybarber6974]

Thank you! This is so helpful! So many things to try! Love your videos!

[@yvethemetriccrafter688]

Great informative video, thank you Karen.

[@akbunny5221]

excellent tutorial. Thank you...!

[@Cassandra-..-]

Accordion method just blew my mind!!!🤯🤩

[@janeahrens572]

The accordion is my fav!!!

[@lanellehatcher561]

I just saw this video. You hit on so many of the issues I've encountered when making HSTs. My fave you highlighted is the accordion method. I do a lot of scrappy quilts and that method really allows a lot of HSTs with no repeats. Thank you so much!

[@JustGetitDoneQuilts]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ravensmokedancer8242]

I loved this video!! I am so much better now with the hst but I have to do the enter side seam method or else the distort bad. Thank you for showing how to get more hsts at once, it was taking me forever!!! Hug the Mando dog for me!!!

[@ravensmokedancer8242]

Oh and my typing is terrible today! I ment center not enter. Ugh!!!

[@deannabosch1434]

Thanks for this! You always have great info.