Half-square triangles (HSTs) are one of the basic blocks in quilting and this is a great block to start with if you are learning to quilt. Whether you are new to quilting or need a refresher, we will be providing plenty of tips for achieving accurate HSTs, along with photos for you to see how it’s done.

For the Cosmic Cactus Quilt you will be making HSTs four-at-a-time, using a method that allows you to have HSTs that when trimmed will have no bias edges! If you are making the scrappy quilt, you will also make HSTs using the two-at-a-time method. All HSTs require trimming, allowing you to achieve a perfect HST unit every time.

You have selected your fabric and now you’re ready to cut your fabric.

But before you start, take a moment to read Preparing your Fabric and Tips for Accurate Cutting. Then refer to your quilt fabric option for specific cutting guidance.

My advice is to take your time cutting!

Thanks for joining me for the Cosmic Cactus QAL!

Are you having a hard time deciding on your fabric?

Read on and discover plenty of inspiration and tools to help you decide on your quilt fabrics.

Join us for a leisurely Quilt Along!

This QAL will be an eight-be part series with all content published online via our blog every two weeks.

We will making a baby or throw size quilt at a leisurely pace over a few months, allowing plenty of time for choosing fabrics, learning how master new blocks and completing your quilt top!

The Cosmic Cactus quilt is a skill builder pattern for a confident beginner or makes a fun project for a more experienced quilter! This 3-in-1 pattern enables you to choose to make a two-colour, four-colour or scrappy quilt.