BLOCK OF THE MONTH

NOVEMBER: THE CHURN DASH BLOCK

Named in the 1800s for its resemblance to a butter churn and “dash” (the stick used), this pattern also goes by many other names. Using bold, contrasting colours can bring an old design into the modern era, and it works especially well with this block.

Note: When your pieces are ready to be sewn together, make sure to trim them all to the same size to ensure they fit together correctly.

1. ORGANISE AND CUT THE FABRIC YOU'LL NEED

Using colour A, cut 2 squares measuring 4⅞” and 4 rectangles measuring 4½” x 2½”

Using colour B, cut 2 squares measuring 4⅞”, 1 square measuring 4½”, and finally 4 rectangles measuring 4½”.

2. CREATE THE CORNER SQUARES USING THE HST METHOD

Match 4⅞” squares in opposing colour pairs, right sides together.
Draw a diagonal line from owner to corner, and stitch either side of the line.
Cut down the drawn line, and press seams to the darker side.

3. SEW RECTANGLES TOGETHER

To form the side squares of the block, sew the rectangles together in pairs of opposing colours, and press seams to the darker side.

4. ARRANGE TO FORM THE PATTERN

Using the diagram, arrange the units together to form the 9 patch block design, with the remaining square of colour B in the centre.

5. SEW INTO THE FINISHED BLOCK

Sew the squares together one row at a time, pressing the seams in opposite directions. Finally, sew the 3 rows together and press to create the finished block.

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