Free Pattern, sort of...

I call this quilt A3D9P. It's a code for Australian Aboriginal Artwork Disappearing Nine Patch, because let's face it, I could never fit all that on a quilt label!! Obviously it's named after the type of fabric used and the technique for piecing the blocks.

This is a fun quilt to make no matter what kind of fabric you use. It works really well if you just keep a few things in mind. While making the large nine patches that will be cut into four blocks, remember that the middle square will become your smallest piece, sort of an accent. The corner blocks will be the most obvious and set the tone for the whole quilt, and the side squares will become the rectangle pieces. Going completely scrappy or simply using 3 fabrics will create entirely different looks. So not only is it easy, but it's very versatile.

Here's a quick tutorial I did on my other blog in July of 2010...

It's called a Disappearing Nine Patch because you first cut squares for a nine patch.

Sew them together.

Cut it in half, both directions.

And end up with these cute blocks.

I started with 5 inch squares and used some very old solids from my stash, and my "Australian Aboriginal" prints from a few different designers.

I love these fabrics! I love the pattern. I know I love how fun and fast it is, that's for sure!

And here's the postcard I hand out as freebies when I visit groups...

Disappearing Nine Patch

For each block cut 9- 5” squares. This quilt had a black center block in each, four solids on the sides, and the print fabrics on the corners.

Sew the squares together nine patch style. Then make one cut through the center of the block from top to bottom. Make another cut through the center of the block from side to side.

Take the four blocks and arrange according to the photo, or in any design you prefer. Perfect for Charm Packs or stash busting.  Enjoy every stitch!  

                  

Butterflythreadsquilting.com   ©2012

 

(not sure why the diagrams moved around and stretched when I copied and pasted this, but you get the idea!)

     

                  

 My quilt fits a full size bed and I used 20 nine patches. I cut my borders 2.5", 2.5" and 5" wide. I used a random arrangement of the blocks and I machine quilted it with a swirling pattern in each piece. I also quilted the borders individually. Sorry I don't have a close up but I'm too tired to go upstairs and look on my kid's bed, besides, I'm sure it isn't made up and she and the dog are probably lounging on it currently. Quilts are meant to be used and loved and this one is very much of both!

  Feel free to print these steps and photos and share with friends. I certainly didn't create this technique, or even know who did, but you can find many tutorials on line for this type of block construction. My way is not the best way by any means, it's just what I found worked best for me.  Don't forget to share photos with me when you finish yours!

I hope you enjoy every stitch!