Using the strips from last weeks step, (they should measure about 1 1/2" x 32", divide them in to 4 sets of three strips.
You will sew two sets with the lightest strip in the center position and two sets with the darkest strip in the center. Sew the first two strips together at the long sides, and press to the dark.
Then sew the third strip on and press this seam towards the dark. These strips should measure 3 1/2" x about 32".
Place one strip on the cutting board and square up the end of the strip by cutting at a 90 degree angle from the bottom of the strip.
Then, cut across the width of the strip in 1 1/2" strips.
Make sure you are making 90 degree cuts so you have nice squares when you sew them together. You can also use this nifty June Taylor ruler.
It has slits, so you can make a series of cuts without having to worry about moving and squaring up your ruler with every cut. Repeat for all 4 sets of strips. You should have a total of around 80 strips.
Mix up all your strips, then start sewing them together in pairs. You will sew 25 sets of pairs first, press, then add one more set of strips to your squares to make your nine-patches. Make sure to mix up the strips as you sew them, and avoid sewing the same sets together to make it look nice and scrappy. You have a few extra strips, so this will make it easier to make sure the last few blocks work out without having to plan ahead too much.
Press once more. Your squares should measure 3 1/2" x 3 1/2". Aren't they cute, and so easy to make! No one will believe you did it with strips!
Next week we will sew our blocks together to make the top. I've got some good tips to help out, so you'll want to check in and see how I do it!
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