How to Make a Nine Patch Quilt Square

The traditional nine-patch quilt square is made up of nine equal-size squares of alternating light and dark fabric. Although they may look difficult to piece together, the trick to making quick and easy nine-patch squares is strip-piecing the squares. Nine-patch quilts come in a variety of patterns, but for the beginner, the traditional square is the easiest to make.

Things You'll Need

• Rotary cutter
• Straight edge
• Cutting board
• Sewing machine
• Light and dark fabric
• Thread

Instructions

1. Select two contrasting fabrics that are 100 percent cotton. One fabric should be several shades lighter than the other for the best effect. If you prefer, you can use white or cream for one and any darker color for the other.

2. Cut three equal-width strips from each fabric using a quilter's ruler and a rotary cutter. You can use any size, but 2 1/2 inches is the traditional size. These strips can be as long as you prefer; generally they are cut to the length of the fabric. You will have six strips of fabric.

3. Divide the strips into two groups so that one group has two dark strips and one light strip and the other group has two light strips and one dark strip. Lay the groups together in separate piles so you don't get them mixed up when you begin to sew.

4. Sew a light strip and a dark strip together by layering the two strips with the right sides facing. Sew a 1/4-inch seam along the length of the strip. Unfold the two strips and iron the seam to the side. Add the third strip so that you create alternating colors of fabric. Group 1 should be dark, light, dark.

5. Repeat the process with the second group. This group should be light, dark, light. Iron the seam to the side each time you sew on a strip.

6. Use a see-through ruler or quilter's square to cut strips across those you have sewn together. Be sure these strips are exactly the same width as your original strips. The result will be strips that are three squares long with alternating colors.

7. Arrange strips to create a nine-patch square that has alternating colors in all directions. Sew together with a 1/4-inch seam and press all seams to the side. Repeat to create more nine-patch quilt squares.

Tips & Warnings

• Experiment once you have the hang of making a nine-patch square. This versatile quilt block can be pieced in a variety of ways to create new and interesting designs.

• Use a consistent 1/4-inch seam on all sewn areas. Inconsistent seaming will throw off the entire square.

• Cut all strips the same width.