Disappearing Nine Patch

Materials

See fabric requirement instructions, block size is variable.

Finished Size

As Required

Skill Level

Beginner

You can download a pdf copy of the original instructions for this project here, Disappearing Nine Patch

This is an ideal pattern for a scrap quilt and great way to use those charm square packs. You can also make a great “I Spy” quilt by using the novelty squares in the corners.

You can use any size squares to make any size quilt it’s so versatile. These instructions are just for the blocks, you will need to add a border (or borders) before completing the quilt.

Fabric Requirements

You can use any number of like sized squares as long as the number of squares you use is divisible by nine.
 
Each group of nine squares will yield four disappearing blocks. For example if you begin with 36 squares to make four nine patch blocks, then these will yield a total of sixteen disappearing blocks.
 
To calculate the size of the finished block you need to multiply the size of your original squares by three, subtract 1 (seam allowances), then divide by two. This will be the finished size of the block.
 
For example if you begin with 5-inch squares the calculation would be as follows.
 
5 x 3 = 15, - 1 = 14, ÷ 2 = 7 inches.
 
6-inch squares would yield 8 1/2 inch blocks,  7-inch squares would yield 10 inch block

Making the blocks

Group your squares into sets of nine and arrange them in three rows with three squares in each row.

For maximum contrast place a dark square in the centre, a medium or light square on each side and a novelty or bright square in each corner.

Stitch the squares together to form a traditional nine patch.

Cut the block into four equal pieces by cutting through the block vertically and horizontally.

Repeat this with the remainder of your basic nine patch blocks until they are all stitched and cut into four.

Nine Patch Split Nine Patch
Figure 1: Nine patch block and split

Setting the Blocks

Arrange the blocks either in rows or sets of four depending upon how many blocks you have in your finished quilt.

Experiment by turning the blocks and arranging in various ways to create the desired layout.

Here are a couple of suggestions. Have fun!

Nine Patch
Figure 2: Layouts

Published with kind permission from Brenda Dean. © Quilters Pty. Ltd. 2009. More lovely patterns available from www.quiltersinternational.co.uk