If you’ve followed some of my other block tutorials, this method of construction will be familiar to you. Basically, I call it a sew and cut method, where you sew the seams first and then cut.
To use this method in the construction of wonky blocks, we won’t even match seam allowances before cutting. We’ll just cut wherever we place the fold, making each block different from its partners. No precise measurements, no matching—what more could we ask for!
You can make these blocks any size you like. My finished block size is 10 ½” and I will use my measurements in this tutorial. You actually cut the blocks to size in the final step, so just start with a smaller or larger center square to arrive at a smaller or larger size block.
First, cut two (2) contrasting squares 4”. Place them right sides together and sew down two parallel sides, using a quarter-inch seam allowance.
Shift your tube so that the seam allowances do not match up.
Finger press a fold in the unit to be cut and cut along the fold line. Press open. Square up to 4’ x 7”.
Cut a 4” x 7” rectangle from the same fabric as the square you just folded and cut. Place on top of your sewn unit, right sides together, and sew down the long sides.
Shift tube so that seam allowances do not match, finger press fold line, and cut as shown. Press open and square up to 7” x 7”.
Cut a 7” x 7” square from a new fabric and place it on top of the sewn unit, right sides together. Sew down two parallel sides. Shift tube, finger press a fold line, and cut as shown. Press open and square up to 7” x 13”. (By shifting your tubes different increments each time, each of your finished blocks will be more diverse in appearance.)
From the same fabric as the previous cut square, cut a rectangle 7” x 13”. Place on top of your sewn unit, right sides together. Sew the two long sides.
Shift the tube, finger press a fold line, and cut as shown. Press open.
Place your block on a mat with inch measurements. Line up the upper right or left corner on an inch line. Now shift a bottom a corner approximately two inch-lines over as shown.
Line up your ruler at the 11” marks both vertically and horizontally as shown. Trim off excess from top and side.
Turn your block 180 degrees and line your ruler up again at the 11” marks. Trim off excess. Your wonky block is now complete.
I wanted my blocks to face in different directions, so I altered the direction that I shifted the bottom corner on every other block. If I shifted to the right on the first block, then I shifted to the left on the second block, etc. Also, you don’t have to hold to the 2” shift at the bottom. Make it 1 ½” sometimes or whatever measurement works for you.
And what about those excess long triangles? I quickly sewed them together for centers of future blocks. I’m sure you’ll see them again soon.
You may have noticed some perfectly round circles within the blocks. Those I will leave for another tutorial.
Happy piecing,
Nancy
This is a fun project ! I have made several quilts and wall hangings with “wonky blocks” and every one is unique indeed! judy