Thread: Tips for HSTs
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Old 09-04-2015, 12:13 PM
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Maureen NJ
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Join Date: Jul 2012
Location: Morris Plains, NJ
Posts: 1,821
Default Tips for HSTs

So I am making a craftsy kit, Ladies of the Lake, where I have to make 700+ 2" finished HST. I found a great tutorial for making eight at a time. I tried it and love it. Check it out and the size chart too at http://www.blossomheartquilts.com/20...ght-at-a-time/.
I did do a few things differently from the tutorial. First, when using the chart, I made the Beginning Square Size 1/4" larger than in the chart so I could trim afterwards.
E.g
Finished HST size 2" Beginning Square Size I made 6", not 5 3/4"

i also cut cut them out in a different order (less movement). I stitched 1/4" on both sides of the diagonal lines, pressed to set the stitches, then cut on line A and B first before cutting the solid diagonal lines (see photo).

Another tip is to use painters tape after pressing to one side and when trimming. I have used it before and thought I should share it. You can do about 25 before you need to change the tape. It stabilizes everything when cutting, preventing movement, and it levelizes (if that's a word) the squares. I trimmed about 25 with the tape on the lower side first and then replaced the tape, putting it on the lower side but it will be on the opposite side when you turn the square around. Makes for great accuracy!! Last photo show my stacks of 2 1/2" unfinished squares. Now back to work!
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