Tutorial: How to make HSTs using the Magic Method

Alrighty folks, we’re back with round two!

This time we’re tackling the “Magic” Method for making half square triangles.  I’ve seen this method used many times, but I seem to always associate it with Jenny Doan from the Missouri Star Quilt company who’s a big fan of this method!

This method makes four HSTs out of 2 squares. It’s incredibly quick and easy to do but it does have one little drawback.  The edges of the finished square will be cut on the bias, making it easier to distort.  As long as you’re careful to press using an up and down motion and handle the squares carefully, you’ll be good to go!

Let’s get stitching!

Be careful with those bias edges when you iron! Move the iron up and down, not side to side in order to prevent distortion.

Yay!  You made four half square triangles from two squares.

Now its time to talk numbers. Just like last week, the first two columns show the finished and unfinished sizes.  The third column shows the exact mathematical number needed to trim up our starting squares.  The pesky square root doesn’t lend us any favors, but there’s an easy workaround.  All you have to do is round to the closest 1/8th an inch.  For example,  if I wanted a 2.5″ finished HST, I would cut my squares to 4 3/4″ and call the tiny little difference negligible.

If rounding scares you, you can always pick a higher number and trim it up.  If you need help with trimming, look back at last weeks post!

So what do you think?  Is this method new to you or is it old-hat?

Let me know if you have any questions or comments! I’ll do my best to answer.

Check out the other methods in our series:

November 11th  – Drawn Line Method

November 18th – The Magic Method (You’re here!)

November 25th – The Eight at a Time Method

December 2nd – The Strip Tube Method

December 9th – The Bias Strip Method