Double Nine-Patch is a time-honored variation of the basic Nine-Patch block. Unlike the original, this version contains a Nine-Patch within a Nine-Patch. This is slightly more involved to piece than the original, but still fairly simple to work up. This block is a great choice to make use of scrap fabrics. Typically worked up in a light and dark fabric, Double Nine-Patch can also be done with white fabric and a print for a more delicate effect. As long as there is some contrast between your fabrics, this block works up beautifully.

How big is this block?

Double Nine-Patch is a 12 inch block.

Construction instructions

Double Nine-Patch is very easy to construct. After cutting your pieces, the small center Nine-Patch is assembled, followed by row assembly. The block is pieced in three rows.

Cutting - Double Nine-Patch is comprised entirely of squares, so rotary cutting is a fast process.

Cut four squares from a a 4 1/2-inch strip of fabric A. Cut four squares from a 4 1/2-inch strip of fabric B. Cut five squares from a a 1 7/8-inch strip of fabric A. Cut four squares from a 1 7/8-inch strip of fabric B.

Center Nine-Patch Assembly - Although this block works up quickly, for best results, check your seam alignment before sewing. Use a quarter inch allowance for all seams.

Gather all fabric A and B smaller squares. Place one fabric A square over a fabric B square, right sides together, and stitch. Repeat to stitch a second fabric A square to the other side of the fabric B square to form row 1. Repeat the last two steps to form row 3. Place one fabric B square over a fabric A square, right sides together, and stitch. Repeat to stitch a second fabric B square to the other side of the fabric A square to form row 2. Place row 1 over row 2 with right sides together, line up seams and stitch. Place row 3 over row 2 with right sides together, line up seams and stitch. Press all seams.

Row Assembly - The rows piece in much the same manner as the center Nine-Patch. The only difference in this step is that a Nine-Patch, rather than a square, is pieced in the center.

Place one fabric A square over a fabric B square, right sides together, and stitch. Repeat to stitch a second fabric A square to the other side of the fabric B square to form row 1. Repeat the last two steps to form row 3. Place one fabric B square over the center Nine-Patch from the last step with right sides together, and stitch. Repeat to stitch a second fabric B square to the other side of the center Nine-Patch to form row 2. Place row 1 over row 2 with right sides together, line up seams and stitch. Place row 3 over row 2 with right sides together, line up seams and stitch. Press all seams.

What can we do with it?

Despite the fact that Double Nine-Patch is a basic block, it creates a very interesting effect when used exclusively in a layout. The block's squares form a grid across this sample layout that is finished by a double border.

For a more complex grid effect, sashing and corner blocks may be placed around each Double Nine-Patch. Multiple borders are used to complete the effect in this example. In such a layout, it is important to select neutral tones or re-use solid fabric from the blocks for your sashing.

More options to think about!

For an airier feel, Double Nine-Patch blocks are alternated with solid blocks in this sample layout. Once again, fabric from the blocks is re-used to lend the design a more unified appearance.

Related : More Free Block Patterns