There are various methods for making HST's that you can try without a template. One of the best things to do though, in my opinion, is starch, starch. With this template, I would be afraid of slicing my fingers. LOL

Everyone keeps mentioning making HST's without marking on the fabric. What method (other than cutting each triangle individually) allows you to make HST's without marking a seam line?

I have the Tucker Trimmer template (by Deb Tucker) and I really like it. I have to cut all my squares, and mark my diagnol line to sew 1/4" on each side of, but I don't have to be super accurate with my cutting because you trim the square down afterwards matching up the seam line on your template. I really like that in that last step you get rid of the dogears at the same time you're cutting down to size. But with these templates that you showed a link to, there's no cutting all the squares out first. I like that. I probably can't justify having TWO different templates for the same thing, but if I didn't have the one I have already, I'd probably get these.

I've just always used the grid method only I do my grid 1" bigger than finished size instead of 7/8" and trim down while squaring them up. I also use the leaders and enders method for making them with the triangle bits I lop off from making flying geese blocks (which I make using a rectangle and a square) and trim those to various sizes.

This has always worked well for me and I don't mind marking the fabric because my grid marks for the squares are usually cut off in the trimming process and the lines drawn for my sewing 1/4" away are invisible in my seam allowance.

I've been using Thangles. They took a little getting used to but now I love them and you don't have to add that dreaded extra 7/8's of an inch.

Interesting technique :D:D:D

Someone posted a method on the board putting 2 squares face to face and sewing 1/4" all the way around, cut on diagonal twice for 4 perfect hst's. I had so much fun playing with this idea, I ended up with a pinwheel quilt over the weekend.
I don't know how to find it again but it was two weeks ago. None of these rulers work for long, I lose them or forget them.

I saw this, too, and was intrigued. The great thing is that you can start out with any size square.

I like the Quilt In A Day triangle square up ruler. I just bought the June Tailor HST/QST shape cut. I've also used Thangles.

For making HSTs from squares without drawing lines, try the Angler 2. http://www.cottonclub.com/cgi-bin/St...es=0&lastmenu=

I use the Angler 2. I've tried several specialty rulers, and find them more bothersome than they're worth. That, however, is my personal opinion and not everyone likes the same techniques. If you think the ruler would work well for you, I think you should try it.

I'll stick to my own methods. It is fast and easy and you don't have to buy anything! You do need a template but I send them out free to anyone who asks.

http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-37915-1.htm - Easy Half Square Triangles

Rhonda, when I have more time I am going to read your information. It looks like a great idea.