July 12, 2002 
Added in July, 2002
BLOCK 7, Simple Chain
Block 7 in the Sampler #101 quilt is another simple block that is infamous for being a "chain" block. Using this block in a quilt causes a quilt to have wonderful "movement".
Block 7 is constructed using three fabrics: Fabrics A, C, and F.
It is important to sew with a scant 1/4" (just short of 1/4") seam allowance so that your unfinished block measures 12.5" x 12.5", however, it is even more important to be consistent in your seams. So, be sure to sew this block with the same seam allowance that you used in the construction of Blocks 1 through 6.
Since this is a sampler that is teaching some of you new techniques, remember that blocks shall get more complicated as we advance through the year, however, the blocks will not become so complicated that you won't be able to do them. Just follow the instructions, and if you run into a problem, join in on the discussion board on the forum and feel free to ask questions!
| Cutting Requirements | ||
| Quantity | Fabric | Size |
| 4 Rectangles | A | 2" x 3.5" |
| 1 Square | C | 3.5" x 3.5" |
| 12 Squares | C | 2" x 2" |
| 8 Squares | F | 2" x 2" |
| 4 Rectangles | F | 3.5" x 6.5" |
INSTRUCTIONS
This block is constructed as one large nine-patch, but as you can see, the components of the nine-patch aren't all single pieces of fabric. So, before we can assemble this as a nine-patch, we must first make the corner mini-blocks (which are simple four-patches), and the center mini-block, which is itself a simple nine-patch. Confused? I hope not! Just follow these simple instructions and it will all come together in the end. Have fun!
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First, to make the center mini-block of the nine-patch. Using four of the Fabric C 2" squares, the four 2" x 3.5" Fabric A rectangles, and the single Fabric C 3.5" square, lay it out as shown below, then sew into three rows, as illustrated:
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Press the top and bottom rows from step 1 in one direction and press the center row in the opposite direction.
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Assemble the three rows from step 1 as shown below:
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The central mini-block made in step 3 should be pressed flat. It should measure 6.5" x 6.5".
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Next, to make the four corner four-patches. Using two of the Fabric F 2" squares and 2 of the Fabric C squares, lay it out, then sew into two rows, as shown below:
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Assemble the four-patch by using the two rows sewn in step 5 as shown below:
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Repeat steps 5 through 6 to make a total of 4 four-patches.
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Now, it is time to assemble the entire nine-patch block. First, lay it out as shown below, making sure that each piece is positioned in the same direction as the illustration, then sew into three rows:
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Press the top and bottom rows from step 8 in one direction and press the center row in the opposite direction.
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Sew the three rows together, as demonstrated below:
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Press the finished block flat. It should measure 12.5" x 12.5" and look similar to this:
The quilt below is a sample of
using Block 7 alone, repeated nine times. See the criss-cross
path formed?
The quilt below uses Block 6 alternated with Block 7. Notice how Block 7 forms a path around the quilt?
The following quilt uses the same two blocks as the quilt above, but reversed. In other words, this is Block 7 alternated with Block 6. Notice the diamond formed around the center? This is my favorite one on this page! It is very striking. Don't you agree?
Congratulations on completing Block 7. In the next block, we are going to use the 8 mini-rail blocks left over from Block 4!
For more information, please contact quilting@quiltingpassion.com
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