How to Sew: HST Quilt Blocks Two at a Time using FPP templates

Using FPP Templates to make HST quilt blocks using the two at a time method is great because:

• no need for overly precise cutting of squares of fabric
• no need to sew an accurate 1/4″ seam allowance (just sew on the line)
• reduced issues with bias edges
• lovely and precise blocks
• ideal for larger blocks AND when working on a tiny scale

PLUS

• you get two identical HSTs at a time!

Step 1 – Prepare FPP Template

Print out the template page and measure the 1″ test square to make sure your printer settings are correct.

Roughly cut out the required template, just outside the dotted lines. I like to use either paper scissors or a craft knife.

Step 2 – Prepare Fabrics

Cut out two squares of fabric, slightly larger than the prepared paper template.

Step 3 – Make a Sandwich

Lay the two fabric squares right sides together and then lay the FPP template, centrally on top. I like to place the lightest fabric between the darker fabric and the FPP template.

Secure the FPP template to the two fabrics with a pin or two.

Step 4 – Sew

Using a shorter stitch length than normal* sew along the two solid diagonal lines that run across the template. They are shown here highlighted in yellow.

* the shorter stitch length makes it easier to remove the template later

Step 5 – Trim

Using an acrylic ruler and a rotary cutter (or appropriate scissors if you prefer), trim along the dotted lines around the outside of the template, through all three layers.

I like to do this step on a smaller cutting mat, rather than my big mat. I always find that I exert a bit more pressure when trimming FPP templates and it doesn’t do my mat much good. It’s cheaper and easier to replace a small mat than it is a large one!

Step 5 – Cut in Half

Cut the square in half (through all three layers) along the long diagonal dotted line to give two triangles.

Step 6 – Press

Place the triangle halves on a pressing surface with the paper side down. Press over the line of stitching then peel back the uppermost layer of fabric to create the square shape. Press on top of the diagonal line running through the block.

You will now have two identical Half Square Triangles!

Don’t have the template set yet?

If not, then you can buy and download the pdf pattern today. All of the template pages have been laid out to print on A4 or US Letter paper. Just remember to measure the 1″ test square to check your printer settings, before starting to sew!

The download is great value as it includes 11 different sizes of templates, ranging from:

1″ square

up to

6″ square