Building Blocks: Half Square Triangles

Half square triangles are one of the most commonly used elements of pieced quilt blocks. Handy Andy and Sawtooth borders, Birds in the Air and a bunch of Star blocks all use this simple unit. And I have a simple way of making them.

In honor of Pink Saturday, hosted by Beverly at How Sweet the Sound , I will be using Pink in my sample. (BTW, I also posted on the pink Starter Quilt Simple Project on Thursday and Friday).

HOW TO HALF SQUARE:
Begin with two squares

These are 3.5 inch squares, they will make 3 inch unfinished half square traingles (HST).

Mark a diagonal line across one of your squares. You can use any pen or pencil (as long as it doesn't bleed) to mark this line. Layer your two squares right sides together and let's move to the sewing machine.

Use your quarter inch foot. Run the edge of the foot along the diagonal line down one side.
And then down the other side of the line.
(Tip: If you do not have a quarter inch foot you may be able to use the edge of an embroidery or zigzag foot and move the needle position to achieve a quarter inch seam.)

Okay, you have two rows of stitching with an inked line between. Cut on that inked line. (I also trim off the corners, to reduce bulky "dog ears")
Press open. You have two half square triangles.