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Block Patterns

Hourglass Block

A block made from four quarter square triangles arranged to form an hourglass shape.

The Hourglass block (also called the QST block or Broken Dishes in some arrangements) is made from four quarter square triangles. Two contrasting fabrics each contribute two triangles, arranged so that the colors alternate diagonally, producing a distinct hourglass or X shape. When set with alternating orientations, Hourglass blocks create dynamic secondary patterns. The block is quick to construct using the two-at-a-time QST method and is a fundamental unit in many complex patterns.

Related Terms

Quarter Square Triangle (QST)A square unit made from four triangles, each taking up one quarter of the square.Half Square Triangle (HST)A square unit made from two right triangles of different fabrics sewn together along the diagonal.

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