Comfort in Stitches

Lately I've been assembling some quilt blocks, working towards a colorful, warm, unique quilt. Each block takes quite a bit of time and precision, and I'd like to share the joy, for those of you interested!

The pattern I adopted and amended originally makes one full-size quilt, from 81 squares (5” x 5”). I'm making a quilt large enough to fit a queen size bed with plenty left over.

You'll need 81 (or more) squares, cut 5”x5”.

You'll also need plenty of strips, cut 1.25” x 7.5”, as well as 1.25” x 8”.

Start by setting up your first 9-square block:

Sew together each row separately, i.e. the top 3 squares, then the middle 3, then the bottom 3, all as separate rows.  Next, stack your rows on top of each other-- this makes cutting easier. 

You're going to measure two inches from the outer edge of the outer squares and cut these pieces off: 

Do this on both sides of the rows. Now you'll sew together the center section. You'll also sew together the outer 2" pieces you cut, as they would have appeared on the original 9-square block. Lay out all your pieces once they're sewn to make sure everything lines up.

Now choose 8 strips, four1.25" x 7.5", and four1.25" x 8". You'll set aside the 8" strips for later, but choose coordinating colors. Sew together two of the 7.5" strips into one long strip. Repeat with the other two strips. Set them into the block.

Sew the outer 2" pieces together with the strips, then sew the strips into the center block. You should have one solid block when you're done.
Now, repeat the cutting process, except this time you'll cut perpendicular to the strips in the block. Now it's also time to sew together the 8" pieces into long strips, coordinating with the strips in the block.

Sew together all the pieces, making sure each corner coordinates. When you're done, you'll have a 9-square block with a square criss-cross corner pattern. You can either place the blocks directly together in your quilt, or place them each within their own bordered section of the quilt, however you wish! If they're bordered you'll need fewer blocks to achieve your desired size, so be sure to figure out how much fabric you'll need.

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I plan to save my quilt until I live in my first real house, as a rather literal house-warming gift to myself.