Double Monkey Wrench Block
DIFFICULTY LEVEL ‣ BEGINNER
FINISHED BLOCK SIZE: 9″ X 9″
Double Monkey Wrench is a great practice block for beginners, as it uses squares, half-square triangles, and strip sets. A variation of the Shoo Fly block, it differs in that there are bars surrounding the center square rather than other squares. You may see this block referred to by such names as Churn Dash, Hens and Chickens, Monkey Wrench, Hole in the Barn Door, and a host of others.
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. Basic quiltmaking supplies are assumed. If working with directional prints or if you want a little room for insurance, you may want to begin with larger pieces than what we call for.
HST = half-square triangle
FABRIC:
Fabric A: (1) 4″ x 25½” strip light fabric
Fabric B: (1) 4″ x 22″ strip dark fabric
CUTTING:
From Fabric A, cut:
• (2) 4″ x 4″ squares
• (1) 3½” x 3½” square
• (1) 2″ x 14″ strip
From Fabric B, cut:
• (2) 4″ x 4″ squares
• (1) 2″ x 14″ strip
Instructional Video:
Fabrics are from the Cheddar & Coal II Collection by Marcus Fabrics.
Block Assembly:
Use a pencil to mark a diagonal line on wrong side of (2) 4″ x 4″ Fabric A squares. Place Fabric A 4″ square over Fabric B 4″ square. Referring to Diagram 1, sew a ¼” seam allowance from each side of drawn line. Cut in half on drawn line and press to make 2 HST Units. Trim to 3½”. Make 4.
Sew Fabric A and Fabric B 2″ x 14″ strips together. Cut strip into (4) 3½” pieced squares (Diagram 2).
Paying attention to orientation, lay out units and (1) Fabric A 3½” square as shown in Diagram 3. Join into rows. Join rows to make Double Monkey Wrench Block.
