By popular demand.....

I have had quite a few people ask me how to make this little Noughts and Crosses (my name for it) block.  So I will show you how it is done.

4 squares 3 1/2"each

Choose 4 different fabrics for the corners.  I used directional fabrics, and cut on the cross.  The squares measure 3 1/2".  I made myself up a little plastic template so it was easier to place along the line of the print.

8 squares 2"

 Next choose a fabric that will go with the above fabric as a contrast.  I cut up lots of 2"strips in various colour values, and just chose from that.  You will need a strip at least 16"long.  Cut 8 squares 2"each

Draw a line on the back of each of these squares from corner to corner.

 Place the 2"squares on two opposite corners of the 3 1/2"squres, and sew along the drawn line.

Cut off the excess fabrics.  You can discard, or keep these - you don't need them for this project.

press the corners out, with the seams flat.

Next"choose the fabric for the centre cross.  Cut 2 squares 2"and one strip 5"x 2"

Find some good contrasting fabrics for the ends of the cross.  Cut 4 squares 2"

I made my blocks in this order  -  the corner pieces, then added the little strips between 2 of them, then put the larger strip of the cross through the centre.

When I pressed the blocks, I made sure one of the centre pieces I press out, and the one where I joined the 3 sets, I pressed in.  This is so that when I come to joining all the blocks together, I will be able to butt all the seams together.  If they don't fit one way, then I just turn them, and they will fit the other way.

The finished size of my blocks are 7 1/2".  If you use the pattern on Block Base, you can choose any size you want.  However, you do get a template for the outer corners of the blocks, which might be a bit tricky for some people.

Colour choices.......for me, it was about getting a good contrast, and not really trying to match anything.  People often comment to me that they can pick out my quilts, because of the colours/fabric  mix I use.  It is because I do not "over-think"it, and do not spend too much time choosing what does or does not go with something.

Hope you enjoy making these lovely little blocks as I have.  Good luck with it!

What I forgot to write (as I had the internet cut in and out) is that if you want to use the Block Base pattern it is number 1970 and has a square in the centre, where mine just has the straight strip.