Blocks for Good - Side-Step Nine Block

This very simple but effective quilt pattern is a great use for those odd bits of fabric you're not quite sure what to do with, including narrower width-of-fabric strips, fat quarters, or any extra 10" squares from a Layer Cake. You'll need two fabrics, ideally with some value contrast between them. For fabrics, let's lean toward fairly neutral, geometric prints that might read more masculine than feminine. But feel free to use what you have on hand, and together we'll create two or more great quilt tops from this pattern.

If you are starting from a 10" square, this pattern maximizes that pre-cut with very little waste. Because of this, some of the sizes are a little unusual, so please read the cut sizes carefully to ensure you end up with the correct size pieces.

From Fabric 1, cut two rectangles 3 1/4" by 9 3/4" and two rectangles 3 1/4" by 4 3/4" From Fabric 2, cut one rectangles 3 1/4" by 9 3/4" and four rectangles 3 1/4" by 4 3/4"

If you are using 10" squares, you can quickly cut each square into (3) 3 1/4" strips, then subcut one of the strips into (2) 4 3/4" pieces. Cut the other square into three strips and subcut two of the strips into (2) 4 3/4" pieces for a total of four pieces. Move the pieces around to create this pattern. Sew the units together and give them a good press.

The blocks should measure 18 1/4" by 8 3/4"

These Side Step 9 blocks will be collected from June until September.