Have you ever wanted to make half square triangles but were too afraid to try?  Here is a simple trick that can help you along!  And what better way to practice than by making this lovely Echo Pillow featured here in our Lavishmint collection by JACK!E.

The trick is instead of cutting 4-7/8″ squares, you can cut bigger squares.  In the pattern, Kristy Daum has already increased it to 5″ but you can even go as high as 5-1/4″.  That’s what I do and then once the half square triangle units are done, I simply use a square ruler and align the diagonal line along my seam and cut to the required 4-1/2″ square.  I cut from the 4 sides to ensure that the seam hits the 2 corners perfectly.

That’s my trick!  Don’t be afraid of making HSTs anymore!

Don’t you just feel better now?