I think you want to use the 8 at a time method, which will produce HST that are not on the bias. You multiply your desired finished size by 2; add 2" (1 3/4" is the exactly correct size, but I always make them bigger and square up), and cut two squares that size. Draw the diagonals corner to corner, sew 1/4" each side of the drawn line, then make the following cuts without moving the fabric. Cut vertically straight down the center. Cut horizontally across the center. Cut along each of the diagonals. After trimming, you have 8 perfect HST's.