Half square triangles – a tip and some formulas
Any quilter knows how to make half square triangles (HST), and there are several techniques that you can use, depending on the number of unitsĀ you need and the size of initial squares you have on hand. You can make 2, 4 and even 8 units at once- obviously, for 8 units you need bigger squares than for 2 units.
I needed sets of 4 HSTs made from the same fabrics so I used the technique that makes 4 HSTs at once.
You can use squares in any size, I used charm squares (5″ squares).
Here is what you have to do:
1. Place the squares right sides together.
Stitch at 1/4” from the edges.
Trim the piece on both diagonals. Press the seams and square up the units as needed.
I don’t make oftenĀ HSTs but when I do, the ruler below is amazing for squaring up- you do it in just one step. It is called SQUARE UP ruler from Quilt in a Day.
You align the line of the ruler with the SEAM of the unit and trim along the edges of the ruler.
It’s a very fast technique, especially if you have many units.
The units have edges cut on bias, so you have to press the seams carefully. If you prefer, you can press the units first and then square up them, with the regular square ruler.
Here is some math, so you will be able to work with squares in any size and create HSTs in any size.
You can use the above formulas in two ways:
– if you know the size of the initial square (X), you calculate the unfinished size of the HST unit (Y); then you square up the HST to the needed size.
– if you know the unfinished size of the HST you need (Y), you calculate the size of the initial squares (X).
Before cutting tons of squares, make a test first!
I used my HST units to make two-color 3DĀ pinwheels. These blocks are even more beautiful when made in Christmas fabrics!
And here is my table runner.
If you want to see other 3D pinwheel quilts, checkout the patterns here.
Happy sewing!
Thank you Geta for your time you give freely. I am a beginner when it comes to quilting due to time constraints and the inability go be able to tackle the challenge of actually making a large bed quilt. But I love reading your tips and how to apply the various techniques you demonstrate. I have learned a lot from you and print the pages for my handy reference notebook. I have made several wall hangings and lap quilts. I just wanted you to know that there are others just like myself that never comment but do appreciate all that you do. Your quilt work is exceptional. If I could accomplish 1/4th of what you do I would be happy.
Kind Regards, Patty, Houston Tx -going to 2021 Houston Quilt Festival.
Happy to hear my work helps, Patty! Enjoy the festival!
Hello Geta and Patty.
I am an Australian fan of Geta and her wonderful designs. I just wish I had more time for patchworking. I’m also a beginner.
I’m focussing on small items, as getting things finished is a great motivator to move on to larger projects. I love the bag designs and all the others I have acquired as Geta’s instructions are easy to follow.
Patchworking brings people from across the globe together in spirit. We are fortunate, Geta, to have you as a mentor whose many years of experience and kindness in sharing make being a patchwork beginner such a happy experience..
Best wishes to you both. it’s nice to know we’re all in this together.
Cheers and stay safe and well.
Robyn
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Thank you, Robyn! I am learning from others, too, so I am happy to share what I know!
I just love your work Geta! I’m always excited to see a new email come in from you! I wish you the very best! Ann from Weirton, West Virginia, USA!
Thank you, Ann!
Worth noting that this method creates biased edges. Eight at a time crates straight of grain edges that can withstand pressing and handling better.