Originally Posted by Sharoni
I actually prefer to sew strips together, press open the seam and cut the half square triangle with a template
If I understood you, you are cutting bias strips, sewing together, pressing and cutting? I don't care for that method. I find it wastes fabric and it takes more time. I did find that method is in one of my quilt books. To each his own, though.
One of my favorite methods is to lay 2 squares right side together, say 13" for demo.
X marks the spot; Draw lines across the diagonal both ways on the lighter fabric. If you fabric slips, then place the fabric face down on a sheet of fine sandpaper to make it stay put.
Then stitch 1/4" from the lines on both sides, making a grand total of 4 stitched lines.
Now position your ruler right down the center of your fabric, NOT on your penciled lines. Cut in half, turn your mat 90 degrees, and cut in half the other way.
NOW cut down the center of your diagonal lines and enjoy your 8 HST blocks. Press and square up to 5.5 or 6 inches.