Instructions by Julie. Posted by Tia.

Congratulations on completing your nine patch blocks. Now we are ready to start February’s blocks. You will be using your own stash going forward.

Each month will have one easy and one intermediate block. The colors assigned to this month’s blocks will remain consistent throughout the challenge. These sample image blocks display a background fabric alongside a light (yellow), medium (gold), and dark (red) fabric. You can then assign your own fabric choices to correspond with the ones shown here.

This month blocks are a classic speed-piecing favorite, and the other will help you master the essential Half Square Triangle (HST).

Your February To-Do List:

1. Complete Block One: The Rail Fence.
2. Complete Block Two: The Wyoming Valley (Choose one of the two cutting methods provided: The Simple Trim or The Square Up).

Block One: The Rail Fence

This block is all about crisp lines and easy strip piecing.

• The Goal: A finished 12.5” square block.
• The Method: You’ll sew three 2.5″ strips together to create a “strip set,” then sub-cut them into squares.
• The Twist: Pay close attention to the rotation of your squares to get that iconic “pinwheel” look.

Click Here for Block One Instructions.

Block Two: The Wyoming Valley

This block is a beautiful geometric design that uses 4 different fabrics: Background, Light, Medium, and Dark.

Important: Choose Your Cutting Method

For this block, I have provided two different ways to handle your Half Square Triangles (HSTs). Read through all instructions of both options before you choose and start cutting!

• Option 1: The Simple Trim. This uses 2 7/8” squares. If you are confident in your scant 1/4″ seam, this method results in a perfect 2.5″ unit with very little trimming required.
• Option B: The Square Up. This uses 3” squares. This is the “stress-free” method. You sew your units, then “square them up” (trim them down) to exactly 2.5″. This is usually recommended if you are new to HSTs!

Click on the Option Name for which set of Instructions you want to follow.

Quick Tips for Success

• Check your Scant 1/4″: Especially for the Wyoming Valley block! A few threads can make a big difference when sewing many units together.
• Use the Diagram: For Block Two, I’ve included a blank diagram. Use it to “audition” your fabric colors before you sew.
• Stitch Length: Remember to turn your stitch length down to 2.0 for more secure piecing.