Claire123

There are many techniques for making HST's. Maybe you haven't hit on the right one for you.

fairydawn

Try Thangles or Triangles on a Roll the next time you have to make HST's. They work great and save time of squaring up.

staceybard

I just finished my first half square triangle quilt. I bought the Tucker Trimmer Tool large size. This helps you square up the sections before you sew then together. I consider this a must have tool for half square triangles. With this method you make your half square triangles bigger than you need., then you trim them with the tool.The I also pressed to opposing sides so the pieces would nest together.

Stitchnripper

I’ve tried a lot of different ways but I’ve learned that it works best for me to make them a little bigger and trim down with a ruler with a 45 degree line. I’ve dodged on occasion and this usually works.

Kitsie

For doing the "stitch 1/4" both sides of the diagonal center line" using a square (which gives you 2 HSTs) , I always add 1.4" to the beginning size of the square and trim after sewing.

Mkotch

Over the years I've gotten used to the fact that my blocks are usually a hair too small, even though I have a 1/4" foot. I think it's not the sewing but my cutting. As I age, I seem to cut less precisely due to eyesight issues. Knowing that, I sometimes sew blocks oversized and cut them to size, but often I just "fudge to fit." Usually, it comes out OK.

WMUTeach

One thing that I frequently do is if I get a lot of squares that are slightly off I will frame them with an appropriate fabric and use them for something else. This may not be the solution for your mystery quilt project but it would put the squares to use and allow them to become UFO's.

If it is the HST that are off, make them slightly over sized and then cut them down to the perfect sized called for in the pattern. If it is the 4 1/2 squares that are off, you many want to check you seam width. You might need to sew a "scant" 1/4 inch seam rather than your normal seam.

I like HST but I have learned over time to start larger and then cut down. Yes, it adds a step but the finish is much better. I know my skills AKA my lack of precision. I am working on it and over time, getting better.

lindaschipper

Have they all been squared up? Not squaring a clock up leaves them looking terrible.

Pagzz

If you are aware that they are just a bit smaller, you can compensate when they are incorporated into the quilt. Ideally if a skimpy hst is paired with a square make sure the square is the correct size and move the hst into centered on the square - the seam would be normal for the square, and skimpy for the hst
[ATTACH=CONFIG]619550[/ATTACH]

tuckyquilter

If I understand your post, each person is making a Mystery Quilt. And your blocks will only go on your quilt correct? If this is correct, then just make sure you make all the blocks the same size. Consistency will be your friend in this case.

However if your blocks will be incorporated into a group quilt, then they should remain the size stated.