Slice and Dice - Uneven Nine PatchDesigned by Abigail Dolinger, January 2011

Fabrics: Select fabrics that contrast with each other in color, scale, and/or texture1 FQ small scale print or tone-on-tone for corner squares of each block---A1 FQ medium scale print for center square of each block---B2 FQs very light or very dark (background) tone-on-tone for side rectangles on each block---C

For this method, you may use any size squares. These directions are for 4" squares to use FQs with the least amount of waste. Use a consistent scant quarter inch seam allowance and a short stitch length. You'll need a large rotary cutting mat and 6" x 24" ruler.

From A, cut 4 strips, 4" x 21"From B, cut 3 strips, 4" x 21"From C, cut 7 strips, 4" x 21"

Sew two strip sets, press seams toward A or B: A - C - A -C -A - C - A C - B - C - B - C - B - C

Cross cut the strip sets in 4" segments; cut five 4" wide segments from each strip set.

Sew these segments together in rows, alternating strip sets; make a "checkerboard" as shown.Press seams to one side after adding each row.

Measure the finished size of a B square, (3 ½"). Divide this measurement in half (1 ¾"). Slice through the A and C squares of the checkerboard, both horizontally and vertically, by placing the 1 ¾" line of your ruler on the edge of the B squares. Never cut through the B squares! Complete the blocks on the far right with leftover rectangle units from the top row. Congratulations - you have just made 15 Uneven Nine Patches that measure 7" unfinished. You may use the leftover squares and rectangles in conjunction with the leftover B fabric to make several more Uneven Nine Patches. Set your blocks together with sashing or with 7" alternating squares of a contrasting large scale print.

Sample Quilts

Cut the inner border at 2" and an outer border of 4-5."

To make smaller Uneven Nine Patches, begin with 3" strips. Follow the directions above. Make the setting triangles by cutting 4 ¼" squares in half diagonally. Trim the blocks to measure 7" square.