Charity Block 2 for GRMQ (Jan 2022)

So here is block #2, the HST Diamond block:

You will need for each block:

8x 4" square black background pieces - all the same (can have a small amount of pattern on it, but should read as black)

8x 4" square patterned scrappy pieces - all different (make sure they aren't too dark so they'll show up against the black)

For the ultimate scrappiness, I would recommend making two blocks at a time (so you'll need 16 of each instead of 8), since we'll be making two-at-a-time HSTs. That way you can put one of each fabric in each block.

You can use squares larger than 4" as well, just make sure to line up the corner that you're drawing your line through, so you're not trying to guess if the squares are lining up. Example below, you'll want to draw your line from the top left corner to the bottom right, so it goes through the corner that you lined your fabric up on.

Since you're using black fabric, you'll have to draw your line on the lighter side.

Sew a quarter inch on both sides of the center line, then cut the fabric down the line. Iron (I suggest ironing open to limit bulk in the seams) and then trim each block to 3.5" square.

Lay out your blocks so there is a black diamond in the center and colorful corners on the outside. It helps to take a picture at this point, so you have a reference for how you laid your block out.

Sew pairs together using a scant quarter inch seam, lay it out again. Sew pairs into quadrants using a scant quarter inch seam (I pinned at the seams).

Sew quadrants into halves using a scant quarter inch seam, and then the halves into the finished block. The finished block will end up at 12.5" square.

This block takes a little longer than the last one, because of the trimming and such, but overall not a hard block to make.

While this is for my current guild, the Grand Rapids Modern Quilters, anyone can make these blocks and contribute them to our charity quilts (or just make them for yourself). If you'd like to contribute them, email me and I'll give you my address to send them to (DamascSt@gmail.com). If you're in the guild, we'll have a box at every meeting that you can put your finished (or partial) blocks in, or you can drop them off with me or Cindy.