HST Math Question....
 

If the pattern says to cut the HST'S 4 7/8's, but I want to do them the 4 at a time method, what size do I cut the squares?

Also, if it says 2 7/8"s, what size do I cut the squares?

I've been staring at this tutorial for a very long time and I can't figure it out.

Thanks, Watson

It's easier for me to figure out different methods if I know what the finished size is -- would that be for finished 4" and 2" squares?

edit: Maybe the chart at the bottom of this site will help
http://www.inquiringquilter.com/easy...four-at-a-time

I don't know, IceBlossom. That's not mentioned in the pattern. Part of the problem.

Watson

Do you have a picture of the block or finished size or is it a mystery?

Ok, so the old math to figuring out a triangle is finished plus 7/8ths. That was my guess on why the blocks would finish at 4" and 2".

Are you making one or two sets out of that, that is are you sewing once along the diagonal, and cutting off a smaller bit, or are you cutting the squares in half, meaning you would sew two equal sets.

Is this a pattern where it is exact, or will you be cutting down? There are tiny differences between the reality sometimes when we are using the diagonal measurement or the horizontal measurement as our standard. So I would cut both oversized and trim down myself.

Unless you want bias edges on your HST units - I would avoid that method like the plague.

I would also cut oversized and trim down.

If the pattern says to cut 4 7/8" squares it will finish as 4" square
(with no margin of error).
When I make HST's I just round off to the next digit. In this case I
would cut 5" square. Sew 1/4" on each side of the diagonal, cut,
press and trim to 4.5" square. After sewing it should finish at 4" square.
If you want to make 8 HST's at a time then you just double the measurement.
Cut your square 10" square. There are charts that are more skimpy or more
generous. Try different ones and see what you like.
I agree with Bearisgray. Avoid those bias edges.
You can check here for a good tutorial and a chart.
If you only need 4 HST's then you do half of it. You will start
with a rectangle that's 5" x 10". But I would suggest you start
with 8 first to know how this works.
https://www.generations-quilt-patter....html#Download

I agree. The 4-at-a-time method where you sew all around the edges of the square results in lots of bias edges. And you still have to trim to get the size you want.

Easy Peezy - thank for the website to cut 8 HST at one time. Neat idea and new to me. I normally use my Eleanor Burns ruler for HST.

Although I don't like the 8 at a time system, I have the "theory" in my folders and it says to:

Start with two squares that are 1 3/4″ larger than the finished size times two.

I've never tried it, so can't say it works. If I wanted a 4 1/2" unfinished hst, I would cut squares at 5 1/2".