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03/17/09
 

 

       An hour glass block is fast and simple to make.  This is also called a quarter-square triangle (QST).  It is a very versatile block that is usually made from two contrasting colors, A and B, although adding more colors generates interest and a scrappy look.  

     Using the method below yields two (2) of the hour glass blocks.    This method assures accurate sizes by making the blocks just a bit larger than needed.    

Fabric Requirements for One Block
FABRIC 6" Finished 9" Finished 12" Finished

A

  1 - 7" x 7"  1 - 10" x 10"  1 - 13" x 13"

B

  1 - 7" x 7"  1 - 10" x 10"  1 - 13" x 13"

   Instructions

  1. Place one of the A squares right sides together with a B square.  Pin these two squares together.
  2. Using a pencil or light marker, draw a diagonal line from one diagonal corner to the other, as illustrated to the right.
  3. Sew 1/4" on each side of the drawn line, as shown to the right.
  4. Cut down the diagonal line, yielding two half-square triangles (HST).
  5. Press the seam to the lighter fabric.

  1. Reposition the two HST just made by placing them right sides together.  Make sure that opposite fabrics are touching.
  2. Using a pencil or light marker, draw a diagonal line from one diagonal corner to the other, as you did above.
  3. Pin the two pieces together, making sure to align the center where they form the "X".  These should easily lock into place if you pressed well.
  4. Sew 1/4" on each side of the drawn line.
  5. Cut down the diagonal line, yielding two quarter-square triangles (QST), as shown to the right.
  6. Press the seam to the lighter fabric.
  7. Trim the square to the desired size by aligning the sewn diagonal seam with the 45° angle on your ruler.

     Using this block alone, in a simple layout without a sashing, results as shown to the left.  

  "All About Blocks" is a work in progress, so be sure to check back often, as more and more free block patterns in multiple sizes are added!  All block patterns that are linked to from the "Quilting Passion Patterns" page are created by Terry Crawford, and although many of them are traditional patterns, a great deal of them are original designs.  Please respect the copyright of this site.  Thank you! 

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