If you want to do 8 hst at a time use two 8 in blocks right sides togather.
Draw an X and sew down 1/4 in on each side of lines. Cut the blocks in half both ways + then on drawn lines. Square up to 3 1/2 in. Saves alot of time cutting this way. You measure 4 in in on each side to get the middle of block for the + cuts.
For 2 1/2 in hst use two 6 inch blocks.