Half-Square Triangle Pillow
by Jeni Baker

Materials:
- 10 print fat quarters
- 1/2 yard of muslin for interior of pillow
- 1/2 yard of print for pillow backing
- 18"x18" piece of cotton batting
- Coordinating thread
- 16" pillow form

Finished pillow: 15"x15"

Cutting if using Traditional Half-Square Triangle Method
From each print fabric:
- Cut (3) 4"x4" squares

From muslin fabric:
- Cut (1) 18"x18" square

From pillow backing fabric:
- Cut (2) 15.5"x18" rectangles

Cutting if using Alternative Half-Square Triangle Method
From each print fabric:
- Cut (2) 6"x6" squares

From muslin fabric:
- Cut (1) 18"x18" square

From pillow backing fabric:
- Cut (2) 15.5"x18" rectangles

Traditional Half-Square Triangle Method:
This is the most common method of creating HSTs.  It’s simple, and creates two at a time.  This method uses 4” squares.

1. Place two 4”x4 print squares right sides together.

2. On the wrong side of one square, draw a line diagonally from one corner to another using a marking pen or pencil.

3. Sew 1/4” on both sides of the line.

4. Cut the square apart along the line.

5. Press seams open, you now have two half-square triangle units.

6. Trim down to 3.5”, lining the center seam up with the 45 degree angle line on your acrylic ruler.

Alternative Half-Square Triangle Method:
This is an alternative way to make HSTs.  You create four at a time.  They arecut on the bias, so be careful when handling them so that they don’t stretch.  I recommend using spray starch to set them before cutting apart.  This method uses 6” squares and creates four at a time.

1. Place two 6” print squares right sides together.

2. Starting on any side, sew 1/4” around all four sides.

3. Cut the square apart along the diagonal.  Be careful not to let the pieces shift after cutting. Cut along the second diagonal, resulting in four pieces.

4. Press seams open, you now have four half-square triangle units.

5. Trim down to 3.5”, lining the center seam up with the 45 degree angle line on your acrylic ruler.

Pillow Instructions:
*Use a 1/4" seam allowance unless otherwise noted*

1. Make 25 half-square triangle units using desired method.

2. Arrange half-square triangle units into 5 rows of 5 units each.

3. Sew together units in each row. Press seams in one direction, alternating direction every other row.

4. Sew rows together to complete pillow top. Press seams open.

5. Layer pillow interior fabric, batting, and pillow top layers.  Baste in place and quilt with desired pattern.

6. Trim away excess batting and pillow interior fabric.

7. Press both pillow backing pieces in half so create two 15.5"x9" pieces. Topstitch along both of the folded edges.

8. Pin one backing piece right sides together with the front of the pillow top, lining up the raw edges with the sides and top of the pillow top.  Pin the remaining piece to the bottom of the pillow top, overlapping the first.

9. Stitch around the pillow top, securing the backing in place. Finish seams with a zig-zag stitch or serger. Turn and press.

For more information visit www.incolororder.com

Sewing Machine Featured in this Segment:
Brother Designio DZ2750