Alabama Block
DIFFICULTY LEVEL ‣ BEGINNER
FINISHED BLOCK SIZE: 18″ x 18″
Alabama officially became a state in 1819, and this is the official state block. Featuring a simple Nine Patch in the center, when blocks are joined together, they create a Single Irish Chain effect. The pattern is ideal for a three-color quilt. However, you can make it as scrappy as you like and may want to consider using strip rolls. While this block is larger than many in our collection, it’s ideal for making queen- and king-size quilts.
Instructions:
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
Read through entire pattern before beginning project. Use ¼” seam allowances with fabric right sides together. Pressing arrows are included with illustrations. Fabric requirements include extra yardage for shrinkage and insurance.
WOF = width of fabric
FABRIC:
Fabric A: ¼ yard white fabric
Fabric B: ¼ yard blue fabric
Fabric C: (1) 6″ x WOF strip red fabric
CUTTING:
From Fabric A, cut:
• (3) 2½”-wide strips. Cut strips into:
• (4) 2½” x 10½” strips
• (4) 2½” x 2½” squares
From Fabric B, cut:
• (3) 2½”-wide strips. Cut strips into:
• (4) 2½” x 14½” strips
• (4) 2½” x 6½” strips
From Fabric C, cut:
• (2) 2½”-wide strips. Cut strips into:
• (17) 2½” x 2½” squares
Block Assembly:
Referring to Diagram 1, arrange (5) Fabric C and (4) Fabric A 2½” squares. Sew into rows. Sew rows together to make Nine Patch Unit.
Referring to Diagram 2, sew (2) Fabric C 2½” squares to each end of (1) 2½” x 6½” Fabric B strip. Make 2.
Referring to Diagram 3, sew (2) Fabric C 2½” squares to each end of (1) Fabric A 2½” x 10½” strip. Make 2.
Referring to Diagram 4, sew (2) Fabric C 2½” squares to each end of (1) Fabric B 2½” x 14½” strip. Make 2.
Referring to Diagram 5, sew (1) Fabric B 2½” x 6½” strip to each side of Nine Patch Unit.
Referring to Diagram 6, sew Step 2 Fabric B units to top and bottom of Nine Patch Unit.
Referring to Diagram 7, sew (1) 2½” x 10½” Fabric A bar to each side of Nine Patch Unit.
Referring to Diagram 8, sew Step 3 Fabric A units to top and bottom of Nine Patch Unit.
Referring to Diagram 9, sew (1) Fabric B 2½” x 14½” bar to each side of Nine Patch Unit.
Referring to Diagram 10, sew Step 4 Fabric B units to top and bottom of Nine Patch Unit to complete Alabama Block.
