Brandywine Valley Quilters Block of the Month

Block of the Month -- November, 2008
“London Stairs”

Block Size -- 6" x 6" finished (6½" x 6½" with seam allowance)

This year, to go along with our 2008 Quilt Show Theme, we’re going “Around the World with Many Quilts!” Most of the upcoming blocks will be based on a 4-patch grid and will finish to either 8½" or 12½" (including seam allowances).

This is a Kansas City Star pattern from Maggie Malone's 5,500 Quilt Block Designs. It's such a simple block - why not make several? Two fat quarters will make 13 blocks: save one for the raffle and set the remaining blocks, 3 x 4, to make an 18" x 24" doll quilt for a special child - Christmas is coming! The quick piecing method, below, makes the process even faster!

November 2008 Block of the Month -- London Stairs

Diagram: Fabric: Cutting Directions:

Medium plaid Medium homespun (4) 2" x 3½" rectangles

Light plaid Light homespun (4) 2" x 3½" rectangles

Quick piecing method: Cut 2-inch-wide strips of a light and medium homespun and piece them together along their long edges. From the resulting strip set, cut four 3½" patches and join as shown to make the block.

Assembly Instructions:

Pair a light rectangle with a medium rectangle, right sides together, and seam along the long side. Press seam toward the darker fabric. Repeat to make 4 units.
Arrange the units as shown, forming a stair-step pattern. Sew each pairs of blocks together to form a row, then sew the two rows together to complete the block.

Tips to consider:

Use 100% cotton fabrics for the block. Wash fabrics before cutting. Do not use fabrics that bleed or run!
Arrange the patches on a piece of felt, flannel or batting before sewing to aid in assembly.
Stitch all seams a scant ¼". Please try to be accurate!
Unless otherwise specified, press seams toward the dark fabric if possible, taking care not to stretch any bias edges.

Block of the Month -- November, 2008 “London Stairs”

Block of the Month -- November, 2008
“London Stairs”