Last week I showed you how to make 8 half square triangles all at once, but we still need to talk about how to figure out what size square to start with to get the right sized half square triangle (HST)!
First, it’s important to understand the difference between finished and unfinished block sizes. Finished is referring to the measurement of the block after it’s sewn into the quilt. Unfinished is after the components of the block have been sewn together but before it is sewn into the quilt.
For this calculation we start with the measurement of the finished block size and multiply by 2, then add 1¾.
Let’s use an example. Say I have a quilt with a finished HST block size of 4″.
4 x 2 = 8
8 + 1¾ = 9¾
So we’ll need a starting block size of at least 9 ¾”. I say at least because that will give you exactly the right size HST without trimming. I always add at least ¼” and trim down the HST blocks to size afterwards because I’m not a particularly precise sewer.
Don’t want to do the math? Lucky for you I’ve put together this handy printable with several common sizes already mathed out for you! I also included the formula if you have a size that’s not listed. Click on the download button below to get it!
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Thank you so much for this. My pattern says to cut all the triangles individually first!! Nightmare. I knew there was an easier way but couldn’t work out the lines 🌹
Glad you found it helpful!
If I wanted to make 8 at a time and unfinished block to be 7.5 inches how large would I need to start out with please? I don’t trust anything I do anymore
Thanks
So if you want 7.5 inches unfinished, I assume your finished block size is 7 inches. So following the formula from above you would have 7×2=14, then take 14+1.75=15.75. So you’ll need squares a minimum size of 15.75 inches, but I’m not super accurate with my sewing so I would use at least 16 inch blocks and trim down the finished HST to the correct size. If you’re worried, try one tester to see if you personally need to start with larger squares.