Plus Blocks tutorial
I came back home after a busy therapy weekend to find these colorful plus blocks on my design wall. When I am away and so preoccupied with Eleni I totally forget about normal home things. Returning to this project is like receiving a gift! I'm so enjoying the vivid Kona colors and also how quickly and simple this block goes together. These little bites of color and scrap play nicely into the corners of my day. Let me show you how to make your own...
simple Plus Blocks {tutorial}
Step 1: Cutting
from background fabric cut
(4) 3.5" squares
(1) 1.5" x 5" strip
(2) 1.5" x 2.5" strips
from plus fabric cut (1) 2.5 strip. Segment as 2.5" x 5" and 2.5" x 6.5".
You can use directional prints for the plus fabric without any special modifications. Just cut both plus fabric pieces from one 2.5" strip. This is a great way to use up long, thin scraps!
Step 2: Sew + Cut
In this tutorial we'll save time and energy by making one additional cut after sewing some pieces together. Although this might seem counterintuitive, it actually increases accuracy and ensures that your directional fabrics will line up in the end! Here goes...
First sew the 1.5" x 2.5" background pieces to either end of the 6.5" long plus piece.
Also sew the 1.5" x 5" background piece to the 5" long plus piece.
Next, cut the 5" wide segment in half, creating (2) 2.5" wide segments. When you cut, match a horizontal ruler line to the already-sewn seam to ensure a perpendicular cut.
After cutting you'll have two pieces like this:
Step 3: Assemble
Lay out your pieces in the plus block formation.
Sew 3.5" background squares to either side of each short plus segment. Now your block is organized as 3 rows.
Join rows to complete your block! It should measure 8.5" unfinished, for an 8" finished block.
And then, just press repeat. Unlike interlocking plus quilts, this simple plus style takes no advance planning. Make as many as you like!
And just see what comes to be...