Progress continues on my Sparkling New Year’s Eve Mystery Quilt.  I was only able to spend one night working on it, so I set out to mark all of my half square triangles for sewing. 

I realize that this was part of the preparation step that was supposed to be done before the sew-along, but I was not able to mark any of them.  But all my squares are now marked and ready to sew.  

When I mark my HSTs, I prefer to mark all of the sew lines.  My go to supplies include a FriXion pen and my Omnigrid Marking Ruler.  The pattern recommends using Deb Tucker’s 180 Studio, Quilters Magic Wand.  I have not personally tried a Magic Wand, but it is essentially the same thing.  They are both ½ inch rulers that you are able to center diagonally on the square and mark the sewing lines, ¼ inch on both sides of the center diagonal.   

As this is not a sponsored post, and I do not receive any compensation for my opinions, here is why I opted for the Omnigrid Marking Ruler.  They are sold in a set of three in various lengths.  This allows me to use a ruler that is right for the job. The rulers are clear and the length is clearly marked in standard 1/8 inch which allows them to be used as a basic ruler when needed.  I find it a plus whenever a tool can serve multiple purposes.  Please note, there are other brands of rulers available. Regardless of which brand you choose, a ½ inch ruler will make all HSTs easier. 

The next step is to sew and cut all of my HSTs, and then the dreaded step of ironing them.  Stay tuned to see as the quilt progresses.