QUILT ALONG -- 9-PATCH & MORE HST (STEP 2)

Since you finished the last set of blocks so quickly, I have two sets of things for you to work on today.  You will make 28 HST (you're old pros by now!) and four 9-Patch blocks.

I had to move blocks around a little bit, so you will see a little change to the layout below.  It changes the background filler pieces a bit, but you should still have enough, and this way we don't have to cut pieces for some of the blocks down to 1/16" accuracy.  Because who has time for that, anyway?

Before I dive into the blocks, I want to show you my color plan -- a color wheel!  I complicated things by doing it this way, but that's why I give you cutting instructions for one block rather than four.  I'm also working with fat eighths and scraps, and doing two identical larger blocks will take more fabric than I have. 

Today you will make twenty-eight 3" finished half-square triangles that will frame the center block.

CUTTING:

PIECING:

Use the two-at-a-time method for making half-square triangles (HST) I showed last time (if you prefer another method that makes larger multiples at one time, feel free to use it). Trim your HST to 3 1/2" and set aside for assembly later on.

You will make four 6" finished 9-Patch blocks.  Susan chose this block.

The cutting chart below is for one block and assumes you're working with scraps or fat eighths for your coordinating fabrics.  I cut across the narrow end of my fat eighths to leave a larger piece for later blocks.  If you're making all four blocks out of the same fabric, you will need two 2 1/2" x WOF strips.

You should have part of a 2 1/2" strip of focus fabric (dots) left over from step one that you can use in this step to get all the squares you need.  Cut the larger pieces from the WOF strip first, then the 2 1/2" squares.

CUTTING:

PIECING:

Since I usually have better results when I strip piece and sub-cut the units I need (rather than sewing the 9-patch from squares), that's what I suggest you do here.  It uses a smidge more fabric, but this way you will have enough to make sure your units are square and have tidy edges. Lay out your strips as shown and sew together.  Press to the dark fabric.

This is a good time to check your seam allowance. Your piece should be 6 1/2" tall -- if it smaller, your seam allowance is too deep.  If it is larger, your seam allowance is too scant.

Square off one pieced edge and sub-cut into two 2 1/2" x 6 1/2" units.  These are the top and bottom units of the 9-patch.

Lay out the three 2 1/2" squares as shown, and sew together.  Press to the dark fabric.

Lay the units out as shown and sew the rows together, pinning the intersections (if you're obsessive like I am!).  Your finished blocks should measure 6 1/2".

I love these!