Half Square Triangle (HST) blocks are some of my favorite quilt blocks! I love how easy they are to make and how versatile they are. You can make some stunning quilts by creatively turning the blocks different directions. Some of my favorite HST blocks are pinwheel, hour glass, and of course, the Colorado block.
My favorite technique for making HST blocks is making 2 at a time. Here's how I make them.
Supplies:
- 1 square block of your accent color
- 1 square block of your main print
- An HST ruler or ruler with a 45 degree line
Both blocks will need to be the same size.
Directions:
- Draw a line diagonally across one of the squares on the wrong side of the fabric. I usually draw on the accent square.
- Place both squares together, matching all sides. Sew 1/4" from the left side of the diagonal line. I usually run my 1/4" sewing machine foot along the line I drew.
- Repeat on the right side of the drawn diagonal line and sew 1/4" from the line.
- Trim the blocks apart by cutting on the drawn diagonal line. You can use a rotary cutter and ruler or a pair of scissors. I've used both.
- Trim your blocks BEFORE pressing them open. Use and HST ruler or ruler with a 45 degree angle. Place the ruler's dotted line or the 45 degree line on the block's seam at the bottom of the triangle. Slide the ruler as close to the edge as possible and trim any excess.
- Press your blocks open. I like to press my seam open for this specific block to eliminate bulk at the seam where the points match. You can learn more about this technique in my blog post "Best Tips for HST Blocks" here.
- For the extra points or tags at the end of the diagonal seam, you can decide if you want to trim those off. I typically trim those pieces, but have also left them on before, too. I didn't find that it made a difference either way.
Free HST Block Pattern - Colorado Block!
One of my favorite HST blocks is the Colorado Block, made from 16 HST. I've got a free block pattern here for you to try!
I hope these directions help you make HST blocks and you have fun exploring all the fun designs you can make with these easy blocks!