Traditional / Public Domain — documented since the early 1800s
A dynamic arrangement of half-square triangles that creates the impression of shattered pottery. Four HSTs are arranged in a pinwheel-like formation, and when blocks are set together, a complex secondary pattern of larger and smaller triangles emerges across the quilt surface.
Broken Dishes is one of the oldest half-square triangle patterns, documented since the early 1800s. The name may refer to the sharp angles resembling broken crockery, or it may be a whimsical pioneer name. The pattern demonstrates how simple HST units create complex overall designs.
This pattern was particularly valued for using scraps — every quilter had HST offcuts from other projects, and Broken Dishes put them to beautiful use. It was a common block in scrap quilts and charm quilts of the 1800s. The pattern teaches the critical skill of precision HST construction, as even small inaccuracies compound across the quilt.
Also known as: Broken Plate, Double X (when set together), Indian Hatchet
finished Block Size
12"
seam Allowance
1/4"
grid Basis
4x4 grid of HSTs
units Required
16 half-square triangle units
All measurements include 1/4" seam allowance unless noted.
| Piece | Fabric | Cut Size | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HST Square | Dark | 4 1/4" x 4 1/4" | 8 | Paired with light squares |
| HST Square | Light | 4 1/4" x 4 1/4" | 8 | Paired with dark squares |
Draw a diagonal line on the wrong side of each light square. Layer each light square on a dark square, right sides together. Sew 1/4" from both sides of the line. Cut on the line. Press toward the dark. Makes 16 HSTs from 8 pairs.
Tip: The 8-at-a-time method (using two large squares) is faster for this many HSTs.
Trim every HST to exactly 3 1/2" square. Precision is critical with 16 units — even 1/16" off per unit compounds to nearly 1" across the block.
Layout 16 HSTs in a 4x4 grid. The classic Broken Dishes arrangement groups them into four pinwheel-like quadrants: each quadrant has 4 HSTs with dark triangles pointing clockwise (or counterclockwise). The overall effect shows four small pinwheels creating one large block.
Tip: Take a photo of your layout before sewing — it's easy to lose orientation.
Sew 4 HSTs into Row 1 with 1/4" seams. Press seams in alternating directions. Repeat for Rows 2, 3, and 4.
Nest seams at each intersection and sew rows together. Press row seams in alternating directions.
Tip: Pin at EVERY intersection. With 16 units, precise seam nesting is essential.
Press the completed block. It should measure 12 1/2" square. Check that all triangle points are sharp.
See how this traditional pattern looks in different color combinations.
Side by side — dramatic secondary pattern emerges
Alternating with solid blocks — frames each block
On point — creates a diamond effect with the broken dish motif