Fabric Requirements for Blocks
The US Sanitary Commission quilts for CO. are made from a traditional block called Cross X or Album block. Civil War Reproduction Fabrics are preferred for this project. The quilt above was made with patriotic CW reproduction fabrics but this is one of only two we have had like it. Most display a wide variety of CW replica fabrics as below.
Two fat quarters make two blocks, with some fabric left over. With two fat quarters, you could make two identical blocks (cut the triangles from one piece of fabric and the rectangles from the other), or you could make two different blocks by cutting one set of triangles and a set of rectangles from one fabric, then make the same cuts in the other. Before assembly, mix the two fabrics together so you have triangles that contrast with the rectangles.
Two fat quarters make two blocks, with some fabric left over. With two fat quarters, you could make two identical blocks (cut the triangles from one piece of fabric and the rectangles from the other), or you could make two different blocks by cutting one set of triangles and a set of rectangles from one fabric, then make the same cuts in the other. Before assembly, mix the two fabrics together so you have triangles that contrast with the rectangles.
You'll also need a small piece of muslin for each center signature square. One fat quarter will be enough for a whole quilt's signature squares.
This image shows the layout for a finished block.
Other Supplies
You'll need:
- scissors (or rotary cutter)
- a cutting mat
- 6" x 12" or 6" x 24" ruler and a 12 1/2 x 12 1/2 ruler
- fabrics
- thread
Directions for Making the Cross X or Album Block
General Notes
Please read all directions for each step before proceeding. Seams are 1/4" throughout. Accuracy is important. The fnished block should measure 12 1/2". These directions create a slightly larger block that will be trimmed down to size.
Cutting
For each block, cut four triangles, four rectangular strips and one square.
- Cut a 10 3/4" square from your main block fabric. Divide square into four equal triangles by cutting across the square diagonally in both directions.
- Cut (4) 2 5/8" x 8 1/2" strips.
- Cut one 2 5/8" by 2 5/8" square from muslin for the center square.
The cut pieces for a single Cross X block.
Overview
Think of the block as three subsections. You'll have two sections made up of two triangles sewn to the long ends of one rectangle. See the picture below to help you visualize the subsections. Detailed instructions for assembling the sections follow.
By sewing the pieces in subsections, you'll be done quickly and accurately.
Assembly
Assemble the Triangle Sections
- Lay one triangle right side down, on top of an 8 1/2" strip that's face up. The short side of the triangle should line up with the long side of the rectangle. This short edge is on the bias, so take care not to stretch it. The rectangle is longer than the triangle, but will be trimmed later. Pin.
- Sew the seam. It may help to sew the pieces with the triangle on the bottom and the rectangle on top.
- Press the seam toward the center strip.
- Sew the other triangle to the other side of this same strip.
- Press this new seam toward the center strip.
- Repeat steps 1-5 for the second section.
Assemble the Center Section
- Lay the short side of a rectangle right side down onto one edge of the center square. Pin.
- Sew the seam.
- Press seams away from the center square.
- Repeat steps 1-3 for the remaining rectangle.
Assemble the Block
- With right sides together, lay the long center strip on top ofone of the pieced triangle sections, The pressed seams will nestle together. Pin on either side of each nestled seam.
- Sew.
- Press.
- Repeat steps 1-3 for the remaining section.
Trim
The finished block is larger than needed. If you have a 12 1/2" square ruler, you can use it to trim the block to size. Line up the 6/14 inch lines at the points of the center square to make sure the block is trimmed evenly.
The ruler's 6/14 inch lines are aligned with the points of the center square. This insures that the block is centered properly when you trim.
If you don't have a large square ruler, you can use any rotary cutting ruler for the final trim. You could make a plastic template that is 12 1/2 inch square. Sandpaper grips on the back help keep the template from slipping. Trace around the block with a pencil and use a shorter ruler to trim along your marked lines.
Signature
Traditional Cross X or Album blocks are signed with your name, hometown and state. Iron a piece of freezer paper on the back of the muslin square to stabilize it before signing.
Sign the center square as shown.
Use a Sakura Micron Pigma Pen or a Millenium Zig pen, nib #05. Look for them at an art supply store, discount store or in quilt shops. If you haven't used these pens before, you'll want to make a few test signatures on a scrap piece of fabric. Please do NOT use a magic marker or other pen - the ink will bleed when the quilt is washed. Heat set your signature with a dry iron.
Congratulations! Your bock is completed.
Next, Quilt Top Instructions
Where to Send Blocks
Email contact:co.hob@cox.net for mailing info.
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