I can't use that MQC method. I hate bias edges and to have 4 of them. **shudder**

I'm a beginner quilter and struggled with HSTs at first. Then I used Rhonda's tutorial here at QB: http://www.quiltingboard.com/tutoria...t=hst+tutorial
Her method gave me VERY accurate results easily and with minimal waste.
If you want to try her method I'll make whatever size template you need.
Rodney

That one has bias edges too. I can do and handle bias edges. I just don't want to. I don't want to have to be so careful with them.

I recently did some HST's using the method that yields 16 blocks. Next time I do them this way, I will probably add about another 1/2" to the size of the initial squares. I would much rather trim my blocks down a little bit then end up with a bunch of finished blocks that are about 1/8" small. It does end up with straight of grain on the outside edges of your blocks which is nice.

This will blow your mind. take any two same size blocks...stack right sides together...sew qtr inch all around...
now cut corner to corner...do not take apart...cut opposite corner to corner...VIOLA 4 half square triangles...you will have
to experiment to get the right size. Check out Missouri Star Quilt Co for tute. Brenda from Wadesville

Place two squares right side together. Sew 1/4 seam around all sides. cut diagonally from corner to corner (two cuts) will have four pieces, open, press perfect hst. Hope this makes sense it's the only way I make them now.

That is a great way to make HST quick, but as others have also said, too many bias edges. The HST get wonky when they are pressed because most don't press they iron.

I dont understand why she does it this way when you make better ones by drawing and x sew and cut in half both ways then on lines to get 8 HSTs. Use six in sqs for 2 1/2 in triangles.

I also use the 8 at a time method. The math is easy and you don't end up with bias edges. For whatever unfinished size you want, double that and add one inch. So if I'm needing 3-1/2" unfinished (3" finished), I start with an 8" square. (3.5 + 3.5=7 + 1 = 8") It's a wonderful method and I rarely have to trim.

Thank each and every one for your wealth of information. Gives me lots of new ideas and now it's finding which one works best for me. Thanks again for taking the time to write and help me out. You are great and I am so glad I posted the question.