I really mis-understood! If you have 5" squares already cut then the finished size of this square will be 4.5". So to get 4.5 ' HST the you need to take 4.5 +7/8= 5 3/8 and cut you new blocks for HST 5 3/8". or as DUNSTER said round up to 5.5" and cut to size. Draw a line on the diaginal and sew 1/4" on either side. and then cut down the middle.

THANK YOU all so much. I can't wait to get going on it. Might have to make it a late night tonight!!!

Thanks I was going crossed eyed trying to figure out all of the answers, boy there is a lot of talent on this board.
i learned something new every time I'm on, now just gotta figure out how to get off the board and do some productive sewing.

but if you want to use the 5" squares with the "new" HST don't you need to make the HST 5" inches too? So you would take 5" + 7/8= 5 7/8 (or 6") to end up with 5". Draw a line on the diaginal and sew 1/4" on either side. and then cut down the middle. ? then you have the solid 5" square (that you already have cut out) and the 5" HST pieced unit to sew together however you need for your pattern. or did I just totally miss what is needed here?

Stop, you are getting us all crazy. LOL

You got it right and from some of the other post I had sort of figured that out but then changed my mind to do 51/2 I had planned to do it today and something came up (grandkids) so now it is right and I will go it tomorrow or at least start THANK YOU SO MUCH!!

I am so confused!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yes you are correct "loves to sew" I quess I as using the "new math

always one inch larger than the finished size. I'm making some now and trim mine to be perfectly square. use the 45 degree line on your ruler also.