That sinking feeling when patterns say 'trim your HSTs'


Building confidence on your quilting journey

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Ever get a sinking feeling when a pattern says "trim your HSTs to size" and you're thinking... wait, how? And why?

And what if I mess this up?

I've been there. Even as an experienced quilter, I used to resent the whole trimming process.

But now that I've slowed down and focused on enjoying the process, I've discovered how much more pleasant piecing the rest of the quilt is with nicely trimmed HSTs.

I've got a new video out with the basics of trimming half square triangles so you can trim with confidence!

video preview

New Pattern coming in November

Speaking of eliminating overwhelm, my newest pattern is back from my technical editor. Using a tech editor helps me ensure that I don't have any math errors AND that it's very very clear - especially for beginners.

I'll be creating all the tutorial videos the second half of October - aiming for November to make it available for you to piece for Valentine's Day or a summer wedding.

I've created it as a Patriotic version as my first run through the pattern -

The pattern calls for 14 fat quarters for the hearts, but also gives a few different ideas for doing a scrappier quilt with other size precuts as well.

I'll let you know as soon as it's ready :)

My patterns have detailed guidance within the pattern as well as links to video tutorials to explain everything.

If you'd like to do a simpler smaller project to test out these heart blocks, I have a table runner pattern here.

Are you in Houston this week?

This week I am in Houston for my first time at the International Quilt Festival. I'm soaking up the experience by taking lots of classes, while leaving time open for looking at all the beautiful quilts.

If you are in Houston too, and would like to meet up for a meal and/or a chat, please email me back to coordinate a time. I'd love to see you :)

Happy sewing!

P.S. I did finally edit all the footage I took of creating the quilt with the embroidered horses - you can see it here.

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Pretty Simple Sara LLC

PO Box 12818, Rochester, NY 14612

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Pretty Simple Sara

I share my exploration of quilting — so you can create with confidence. Notes from my studio, in your inbox.

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