Piecing Half Square Triangles

Quick Piecing
Half Square Triangles

Many pieced quilts include lots of half square triangle blocks. Using this method you can piece many at the same time.

When you draw your lines for your blocks you will need to draw them 1" larger than the block sections will need to be. For example, if you have a half square block that will finish at 3" after all sewing is complete then it will be 3 1/2" as a block section. You would need to draw your blocks 4".

On the wrong side of the lighter of your two fabrics for your half square triangle blocks draw the lines as shown at left. The set up shown here will produce 18 half square triangle blocks. Leave about 1/2" around the outside edge for the seam allowance. You will trim this off after you finish the sewing.

Pin your two fabrics, (right sides together) as shown. You will be sewing 1/4" away from the red line. The arrows show the direction of sewing. It is best to start the sewing in the center and work outward to avoid puckering.

Cut off excess around edges and then cut apart your block units.

Cut diagonally across the square and press the seam towards the darker fabric.

	On the wrong side of the lighter of your two fabrics for your half square triangle blocks draw the lines as shown at left. The set up shown here will produce 18 half square triangle blocks. Leave about 1/2" around the outside edge for the seam allowance. You will trim this off after you finish the sewing.
	Pin your two fabrics, (right sides together) as shown. You will be sewing 1/4" away from the red line. The arrows show the direction of sewing. It is best to start the sewing in the center and work outward to avoid puckering.
	Cut off excess around edges and then cut apart your block units.
	Cut diagonally across the square and press the seam towards the darker fabric.