Help with HST
 

My directions says background Cut Ten 2 7/8" squares and then cut them diagonally. Then green do the same and then sew the hst together. I want to end up with 2 1/2 in squares. Can't I just put the 2 7/8 background to gree and make down the middle and sew 1/4 inch on each side. isn't this the same and is easier? Thanks for the help.

It is the same and easier. ��

Not quite sure I understand your question, but you can place two squares of fabric right sides facing draw a diagonal line through the middle and sew 1/4 inch on each side of the line and cut on the line and get 2 hst

The traditional (read "older") method of making HSTs said to cut squares 7/8" larger than the desired HSTs.
Most quilters now just forget about that ODD measurement (7/8"??!!:confused:) and cut the squares at 1" larger than the HSTs the squares will make, and then trim them down afterwards for perfectly square HSTs.

Perhaps this graphic will help you.

Jan in VA

Craftsy has a great tutorial on how to make 8 HST's at a time. I use it to make Carpenters Star quilts and I love it! It is called the Magic 8 Method.

How have you made hst in the past? Jan's illustration is perfect!

I use that method too. It is so fast and easy. I love the idea of "8 at a time".

I always use magic 8 when I need 8 or close to 8 of the same fabrics.

I am in the process of making tons of 2 1/2" hst and I just cut 1 background square and 1 print fabric square (each square would be 3"). Put them right sides together, draw a line down the center and sew 1/4" on each side of the center line. Cut down the diagonal center line and you will end up with 2 hst and this will give you a little room to square up. Hope this explains things well for you.