September always feels like a fresh start, with crisp school supplies, shifting light, and that quiet hum of possibility in the air. And since it’s National Sewing Month, what better time to kick off a year-long series of quilting challenges? Each month we’ll dive into a new sewing technique, practice quilt block skills like Half-Square Triangles, play with color studies, and celebrate the joy of making. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just starting your sewing journey, this is your invitation to grow your skills, connect with others, and stitch with intention all year long.
So, are you ready to sew along with me? Each month I’ll spill the beans on the latest challenge theme right here on the blog, along with all the juicy details you’ll need (yes, including the giveaway info!). Then it’s time to get social! Head over to my Scrap Happy Facebook Group, where the real magic happens. I’ll be posting weekly prompts to keep you inspired, checking in to see how you’re doing, and cheering you on every step of the way. Plus, you’ll get to share your own progress pics, swap ideas, and soak up encouragement from fellow quilters. Together, we’ll turn scraps into something spectacular and have a blast doing it!
Okay, let’s get to this month’s challenge…
This Month’s Focus: Half-Square Triangles (HSTs)
We’re kicking things off with a classic: the humble Half-Square Triangle. Don’t let its simplicity fool you; this versatile block is the backbone of countless quilt designs. From pinwheels to chevrons and diamonds to flying geese, HSTs offer endless possibilities for play and precision.
Why Start with HSTs?
- They’re beginner-friendly but endlessly adaptable
- They teach accuracy, trimming, and pressing techniques
- They’re perfect for experimenting with color and contrast
- They’re a great stash-buster for scraps and seasonal palettes
Challenge Details:
- Head to your scrap bins and make a project where HSTs are the star of the show. Big, small, scrappy, or mixed—every triangle counts!
- Remember, the goal is to stitch every last inch of your stash, so no shopping trips allowed. Just you, your scraps, and your imagination.
- Try a new method: two-at-a-time, four-at-a-time, or even using a jelly roll.
- I’ll be sharing weekly prompts to keep you inspired.
- Share your progress in the Scrappy Girls Club Group with #ScrappyGirlsChallenge and tag me so I can cheer you on!
- Reflect on what you learned—this challenge is about growth and using your scraps, not perfection.
- To get the party started, we are including a free printable HST cheat sheet. Simply download and print at home.
Now, no challenge would be complete without a little design inspiration! One of my all-time favorite ways to showcase half-square triangles is my bold Modern Love Eclipse quilt. The layout is striking, playful, and the perfect reminder that simple HSTs can create endless design possibilities. And because I know how fun it is to explore new layouts, I’ve rounded up 8 more scrappy HST quilt designs to keep your creativity flowing. So go ahead, raid that fabric stash, stitch up some half-square triangles, and let your imagination run wild!
Printable HSTs Cheat Sheet
HSTs have never been so easy! Download this printable cheat sheet and never shortchange your HSTs again.
Giveaway:
A huge shoutout to everyone who’s joining the HST Party Challenge. You’ll turn tiny scraps into incredible works of art!
You have a chance to win 5 Blocks2Quilt patterns that use HSTs!
We’re not in this for perfection, just participation and heart. I’ll randomly select one winner and announce it in early October when we launch the next challenge!
Don’t forget to use the hashtag #ScrappyGirlsChallenge so we can cheer you on!
Looking Ahead:
Each month, we will introduce a new challenge right here on the blog. We encourage you to create a binder to add free challenge printables to throughout the year. By next September, you’ll have a toolkit full of skills and a heart full of handmade joy.
Here’s to a year of challenges, creativity, and community! Ready to dive in? Grab your scraps, pick your palette, and let those triangles fly!
