8 half sq. triangles question
 

I am trying to make the 8 at once half sq. triangles. I want my sqs. To be 3 1/2 when I am done cutting the
8 of them. What size sqs. Do I start with. I thought a 8 inch square would work but it didn't.

What am I doing wrong?

Here is one tutorial which may help you.

http://www.psiquilt.com/2010/02/half...-tutorial.html

A 3.5" unfinished HST is 3" finished. To make 2, you would normally cut a 4" square, sew the diagonal seams cut and trim to 3.5". So basically 8" seems correct to me for the 8 ata time versions. You should have to trim them a tiny bit. If they are too small, have you checked your 1/4" seam allowance lately? Here's a way to double check:
http://www.quiltingboard.com/tutoria...ce-t89997.html

Here's graphic that may help.
Layer two 8½" squares right sides together.
Sew as directed.
Cut, press, and trim to 3½" square.

Jan in VA

Thank you all so much I will try all of these. It just great the way every joins in to help a member.
Keep up the good work.

I make my 31/2 inch hst using 2- 8inch squares sewing corner to corner both ways (1/4 inch each side of pencil line or fold) Then cut from corner to corner both ways and across the center. Just place your ruler making sure its centered. 2-9inch squares will produce 8 - 4 inch hst and two 10inch squares will produce 8 41/2 hst. There is room to square them up with just a sliver taken away.

Make an investment of the Triangulations 3.0 CD. Its about $30 but well worth it. There are paper piecing patterns for many, many sizes for flying geese, HST, and QST. You won't be sorry, I know it is something that I will be able to use for years to come. Perfect HST every time.

You can also make it with a 4" x 16" strip instead of using a square.