The Magic of HST (Half Square Triangle) Quilts

How turning the blocks creates endless layouts

Half Square Triangles, usually called HSTs, are one of the most loved quilt blocks for a reason. With just two triangles sewn together, you can create quilts that feel modern, traditional, bold, or soft… all from the same exact block.

The real magic of HST quilts isn’t just in making them.
It’s in how you turn them.

Favorite HST Layouts

Below are some of my favorite layouts, all starting from the same basic HST units.

Starburst

First I started with a Starburst Layout. . . (yes a couple are going the wrong way)

Herringbone

Then thought I'd try the Herringbone Layout and I absolutely loved it. 

Someone else loved it too.

Some More of My Favorites:

Basic Layout

All HSTs face the same direction across the quilt. This creates a strong, graphic pattern and really shows off contrast between fabrics.

This layout feels clean and modern, and it’s a great choice if you want the fabric itself to be the star.

Zig Zag or Chevron Layout

By flipping every other HST in a row (or alternating rows), the quilt takes on a zig zag or chevron effect. The eye naturally moves across the quilt, creating a sense of motion.

This layout works beautifully with solids, gradients, or fabrics that shift color gradually.

Turning the Blocks: Same HSTs, New Quilt

This is where HSTs really shine.

Imagine you’ve made a pile of identical HST blocks. If you rotate some of them 90 or 180 degrees, new shapes begin to appear, diamonds, hourglasses, secondary patterns, all without changing the block itself.

Design Before You Commit

One of the best things you can do with HSTs is play with layout before sewing the rows together.

Try:

• Laying blocks out on a design wall or floor

• Rotating sections and stepping back to look

• Taking quick photos to compare options

• Moving blocks until the pattern “clicks”

Often, the quilt will tell you what it wants to be, especially after the toucans have inspected it and claimed a nap spot.

Final Thoughts

HST quilts are proof that simple blocks don’t mean simple designs.

With one basic unit and a bit of rotation, you can:

• Create multiple quilt tops from the same blocks

• Adjust the design mid-process

• Let contrast and movement lead the way

If you ever feel stuck creatively, make some HSTs, lay them out, and start turning.
Chances are, a beautiful quilt is already hiding there — just waiting to be rotated into place.

Happy quilting 🪡✨
Jo Simpson

If you'd like to see more toucan adventures, here is my Instagram link:
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