The 1" larger than you need is 1" larger than the "finished" HST needed. There is never more than an 1/8"-ish to trim, which isn't much lost. If directions say cut squares 4 7/8", cut the pieces 5". The accuracy of squaring up the blocks after they are sewn and pressed is so much better. I use this method and the method of using larger squares to make 8 HST units, depending on how many I need.

I have had my best results using Jan's method. I also use the "Quilt in a Day" sizng up ruler. You put your HST seam on the line that matches the size you want and cut off the excess.

Jan, I learn so visually, so thanx for the nice little tute. I don't have much proble with HST's but I always starch very heavily the fabrics that will have those bias edges

Have you ever tried the Wonder Ruler? You sew a tube and then cut perfect HST's.

beautiful quilt

I love Thangles.

I ALWAYS make my HST's larger then cut down to the size you need. It works for me and I get better results.

I learned how to do HST by placing two fabrics together and drawing the lines, using a pencil ....fast but slow...Then I discovered Triangulations! It's actually a joy to use and I can get any size I want easily. I made a Bonnie Hunter scrap quilt that had a million jillion HSTs and used the Triangulation program...they were the easiest part of the quilt..and extremely accurate!

Ditto re Accuquilt Go. Now, I look for patterns with HSTs!