I know I have harped a lot about knowing the actual ¼” seam on every sewing machine, but... I have also learned ways to avoid stress due to an occasional brain freeze when sewing!...lol I cut my HB borders 2¾” instead of 2½”. Then... I just square them up with a little trimming when done. I would much rather give up that tiny little strip of fabric then have to remake one block...OR send someone a block that’s not the correct size. I made my first HB’s wayyyy too much work.

Alsooooooooooooo.....JoAnn Fabrics carries a total CHEATER 8.5” frame type template. I don’t own it, but I’ve looked at it many times! I already have the pile of great templates I depend on, and the ONLY reason I’ve considered buying it when on sale is that it’s perfect for fussy cutting! It’s got the 4” center block cut out of it already and the little teardrop openings for your rotary cutter blade if you want to use it to cut your 4.5” center squares. Then...the outer square is 8.5”.

I’m looking for a link to it...and if I locate it... I’ll post it for fun.

Wasie check you pm.
thanks ef