Modern Monday - Block 56

Crossed 9-Patch

So as much as I love crossed blocks, I found I was running out of fresh ideas for them. So I started thinking about using the slice and insert method on a pieced block. What would that look like? So I experimented and came up with the Crossed 9-Patch. Wow! It really cam out nice! I think with some further tweaking and experimentation, this could really be a neat technique for an entire quilt.

I chose oranges/cheddar for the 9-patch and dark gray for the cross.

Cutting:
From the oranges and cheddar, cut 3" squares in any combination you want for your 9-patch block. I cut mine oversized, (3") and it left the finished block with weird proportions. I was worried that the seam allowances would eat up too much of the block if I didn't oversize it. But once I got into it, I think I'd be okay. Consider cutting the squares 2 1/2" for a more proportioned look, but know you might have to really pay attention when you're sewing the crossed part of the block because there won't be much room for squaring up at the end.

Make your 9-patch any way you want. I wanted something bright!

This was 7 1/2" when finished.

Cut your cross strips 1" x ~9" long

Slice a diagonal through the center strip of the 9-patch.

Insert and sew. Be sure to offset the ends a bit so the block sews up squarely.

Rotate and repeat wit the second strip.

I didn't pay close enough attention when sewing the second side on and the cross isn't perfect. I think I'd pay more attention next time to try to get it better. But in the spirit of Modern quilting, this is just fine for this block!

Trim to 6 1/2" when done.