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Strip-piecing makes a nine-patch block predictable: sew contrasting strips into two strip sets, cut both sets into equal segments, pair the segments, and join three rows. In the demonstrated example, 1.5-inch strips and 1.5-inch segments produce 1-inch finished center squares when quarter-inch seams are accurate.
What you need
- Contrasting quilting cotton strips, cut 1.5 inches wide for the demonstrated size
- Rotary-cutting tools and a ruler for cutting segments
- An iron for pressing each seam fully open or toward the darker fabric as directed
- A sewing machine and thread
- A regular presser foot, or an optional quarter-inch presser foot with a guide
The tutorial uses strips across the width of fabric—42 inches is given as an example—or strips about 22 inches long cut from a fat quarter. The method does not require the Baby Lock Crescendo machine mentioned in the video introduction.
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Understand the two strip sets
Dark-light-dark set
Sew two dark strips to a light center strip. The light strip becomes the center square in alternating segments.
Light-dark-light set
Sew two light strips to a dark center strip. Its dark center alternates with segments from the first set to form the nine-patch pattern.
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Make and check a strip set
- Align two strips along a long edge and sew with a consistent quarter-inch seam.
- Press the seam toward the darker fabric.
- Sew the third strip to the opposite long edge and press that seam toward the darker fabric.
- Before producing more sets, measure the center strip. A 1.5-inch cut strip should measure 1 inch after the two quarter-inch seam allowances are sewn.
- If the measurement is wrong, inspect the pressing. A folded seam can make the strip appear too narrow. Open the seam with your fingers and use the iron tip carefully to flatten it before measuring again.
Cut the segments
For this example, cut each completed strip set into 1.5-inch-wide segments. Keep the cuts square and consistent; every segment must contain three adjacent squares.
Assemble the nine-patch
- Place two segments from one strip-set arrangement around one segment from the opposite arrangement so the center values alternate.
- Sew two segments together, matching the seam allowances. Because the seams were pressed toward the dark fabric, opposing seams can nest at the intersection.
- Add the third segment and sew the remaining seam.
- Press the completed seam toward the row with the most dark pieces, as demonstrated.
- Check that the nine squares meet cleanly and that the block measures as expected after pressing.
Chain-piecing can keep repeated segments moving through the machine without cutting thread between every seam.
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Why strip-piecing works for several blocks
| Approach | Workflow | Best fit | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual squares | Cut and sew nine separate squares for each block | One block or a layout requiring individually chosen squares | More separate pieces and more opportunities for seam variation |
| Strip-piecing | Sew long strip sets, cut equal segments, then assemble rows | Several repeated blocks | Requires accurate strip width, square cuts, and consistent quarter-inch seams |
The tutorial presents strip-piecing as a quick way to make multiple blocks, but it reports no timed comparison or measured accuracy advantage over sewing individual squares.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Seam-accuracy troubleshooting
The center strip is narrower than 1 inch
Press the seam fully open or flat before measuring. A seam allowance that remains folded can distort the width. Also verify that the seam is consistently one quarter inch along the strip.
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- Easy to read black and white markings, with cutting slots every 1/2in.
- Whole inch, half inch and quarter inch increments are marked. Additional markings for 1/4in and 3/4in cuts are also included.
- For quick reference, 1-1/2in cuts are highlighted with black stars and 2-1/2in cuts with black squares.
Intersections do not nest
Confirm that adjacent seams were pressed in opposite directions—toward the dark fabric in each strip set—before joining segments. Align the seam allowances carefully and pin if needed.
The finished block is not square
Check that strips were cut to the same width, segments were cut squarely at 1.5 inches, and the machine seam did not widen or narrow. Press rather than stretching the fabric.
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Changing the finished size
The measurements above apply only to the demonstrated example: 1.5-inch cut strips and segments for 1-inch finished center squares. A different finished block requires recalculating strip and segment widths to include the quarter-inch seam allowances. The tutorial provides no alternate sizing chart, so make and measure a test unit before cutting multiple strip sets.
Presser-foot choice
A regular presser foot works. A quarter-inch presser foot with a guide is optional and may help maintain the seam line; it is not required for this technique.
Quick Recap
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