I kind of cheat. Almost all my hst are 2" in my blocks. And the most effective HST method is my accuquilt cutting die that cuts 8 at a time:

http://www.accuquilt.com/shop/go-hal...multiples.html

(die #55063). For the other sizes, I use the small block loc, or cut down the middle and trim.

if I'm just making a few, I'll use the squares sewn together and cut into 2 triangles. If I am able to use my Accuquilt Go to cut them it's even better (depends on size), if I need a lot and Accuquilt isn't the right size, I use my Wonder Cut ruler--you sew two strips together (the width indicated on the ruler) and then use the ruler to cut triangles from your two sewn together strips--the cut is such that only one single stitch holds the triangle point together and it pops right open. Very accurate. I do find that since you now have bias edges, that is HST are finishing larger than 2.5" I use spray starch on the stripes before cutting.

I use the "Power Cutting" Technique. The book is probably out of print, check Amazon. It doesn't require trimming. I rarely do more than 12 hst that use the same materials.

Thanks so much for this link, I have saved it. I love learning new ways to do things, well new to me anyway, lol

I finally got the block look and regret that I didn't get it sooner. Love it!

I use my half square triangle ruler all the time. Bonnie Hunter has a YouTube video that shows the best way to use it.

I have the Go but all size of HST I need aren't available on a die. There are a lot of great ways to do the HST. Something for everyone.

I sew the squares on the diagonal and then cut apart (currently doing this), but I do like a diagonal line on a "square" ruler to accurately square the block up.

I printed this out in 2 1/2 size. The one inch square is 1/8 inch short on both sides. What do I do now? Should I try enlarging it? By how much?

I have the Quilt in a Day ruler where you trim before you open up the square and like that when I remember to use it. Otherwise I just use a square ruler and put the 45 degree line along the line where the two sides are stitched, trim two sides, turn trim the other two. The quilt in a day ruler you only have to trim two sides and takes less brain power in positioning it. I've never had trouble with it slipping but you could use the sand paper dots to help.
If I'm going to make a lot of hst then I use a software program called triangulations. It comes on a CD through Bear Paw. It prints out templates that you sew through the paper. Works great and very accurate. Here's a link to the site: https://www.bearpawproductions.com/s...php?cat=1&ID=2 It's also available through Amazon.