8-At-A-Time Half-Square Triangles

Making half-square triangles 8 at a time is an easy way to get a lot of HST units at one time.  Even if a pattern doesn't call for this method I will still do this method.  All you have to do is divide the number of HSTs by 8 and you'll know how many fabric squares to start with.  For example, if a pattern has 32 HSTs, then I know I need to do this method 4 times. Typically with this method, you are making half-square triangles that are slightly larger than what you will need. So once you've sewn and then cut them apart, you will trim them to the size that you need them to be.  

You will start with two squares of fabric.  For this tutorial, I am starting with 10"x10" squares. Place those squares right sides together.

Then I am going to draw two diagonal lines on the wrong side of one of the fabrics, making an X.

The next step will be to sew one quarter inch on each side of those lines. You will be sewing four diagonal lines total.  You can see my two stitched lines here.

Next, place a ruler on the drawn line and cut along the line slowly and carefully.  Do this for both drawn diagonal lines.

Finally, cut across the fabrics in a cross shape.  Line up the ruler along the edges to make sure it is straight.  Then line it up going across the center point to make sure it is centered.  Cut across the squares both horizontally and vertically.

One tool that is very handy to have for this method is a rotating mat, but it's not necessary. I don't recommend moving the fabric, but you can maneuver yourself around your mat to cut the different angles. 

Once you've made your four cuts, you can separate the half-square triangles and press them open.

After they are pressed, you will trim them to size. 

So there you go, eight-at-a-time half-square triangles. Easy peasy!

Prefer a video?  You can watch the tutorial below.

Want to make 4-at-a-time or 16 at-a-time?  Click the links to learn how.