SHOOFLY BLOCK

The Shoofly block is a simple but effective nine patch. The four corners are triangular pieces made in contrasting fabric. The center square matches the inner triangles, and the surrounding squares match the outer triangles.

Directions:

1. For the center square, cut one square 1/3 the size of the final block, plus 1/2" seam allowance. For example if your block is 12" this square would be 4".

2. For the surrounding square, cut four squares of a contrasting fabric the same size as the center square.

3. Make 4 half-square triangles

a. From each fabric cut 2 squares the size of the other squares plus 1 1/2". For example if your other squares were 4" these would be cut 5 1/2 inches.

b. Place contrasting fabric right sides together. Draw a line down the middle of the lighter fabric square. This should be done on both pairs.

c. Sew with a 1/4" seam allowance on both sides of the diagonal line. Do both pieces at the same time.

d. Cut along the diagonal line. Press toward the darker fabric. *For more details on half-square triangles, click here.

4. Lay out all your blocks in the proper order. Check picture above for the direction of your half-square triangles.

5. Row one - sew a half square triangle to a surrounding block to a half square triangle. Press toward the surrounding squares.

6. Row two - sew a surround square to a center square to a surrounding square. Press toward the surrounding squares.

7. Row three - repeat row one.

8. Sew the three rows together with a 1/4" seam allowance. Press flat.

I hope you enjoyed making the Shoofly block.

Return to "Traditional Quilt Blocks" from "Shoofly Block".