How to Make a Perfect Churn Dash Quilt Block
This post may contain affiliate links which won’t change your price but will share a commission.
Inside: How to Make a Perfect Churn Dash Quilt Block
The Churn Dash Quilt Block is a very basic block that has stood the test of time. This popular quilt block is a very old 9-Patch quilt block pattern, originating sometime between 1800 and 1850. Its name is a result of the resemblance of the block’s triangle and rectangle perimeter to a butter churn and the center square to the stick (or “dash”) of the butter churn.
This quilt block is also recognized as the “Monkey Wrench” Quilt Block. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to put together this fun and easy quilt block. Let’s get started!
Churn Dash Quilt Block Supplies
Fabric Requirements:
- Light Fabric – Kona Canary #0026
- Qty (1) 7″ square
- Qty (1) 2.5″ x 18″
- Dark Fabric – Kona Aruba #0837
- Qty (1) 7″ square
- Qty (1) 2.5″ x 18″
- Middle Fabric – Kona Cantaloupe #0059
- Qty (1) 4.5″ square
Get a FREE PDF Download
Click the pink button below for a FREE downloadable PDF that includes the Churn Dash Quilt Block Assembly Instructions + HST’s 4-at-a-Time.
Basic Sewing Supplies Needed
- Sewing Machine
- Its nice to use a 1/4″ sewing foot to help maintain a perfect seam allowance
- Cotton Thread
- I love using Aurifil 50 wt. thread
- Rotary Cutter with sharp blade
- Acrylic Ruler
- Rotary Cutting Mat
- Iron & Ironing Board
CHURN DASH QUILT BLOCK TUTORIAL
Step 1: Preparing the Fabric
Iron your fabrics nice and flat to remove any and all wrinkles. Use your cutting measurements to get your pieces all cut and in order.
Step 2: Half Square Triangles (HST) 4-at-a-time
Follow the diagram below to make four half square triangles.
- Place a light and a dark fabric square right sides together.
- Sew a 1/4″ seam allowance all around the perimeter of the square. See How to Sew the Perfect Quilting Seam Allowance for more details.
- Make (2) diagonal cuts and press each piece open to one side.
- Trim away the dog ears using a square quilting ruler.
Step 3: Assembling the Block
- Sew the (2) long strips of fabric – right sides together (pictured below).
- Next, cut your sewn strip of fabrics into (4) equal parts. Press open to the dark side.
- Join all rows according to the diagram below. Use a quarter inch seam allowance. Take time to nest your seams.
- Press your completed block and trim down to 12.5″ square (if necessary).
Step 4: Pressing
It’s important to pay attention to the back of the block, which helps identify the pressing direction. Don’t forget to nest your seams to ensure really great junctions!
The Churn Dash Quilt Block is such a fun and easy block! You can also modify this block by changing the center square fabric. You can try using the same light fabric for a more traditional block, or you can even use a coordinating or contrasting print for a fun change of pace!
These are really easy to make and I hope you make lots and lots of them!
Happy Quilting!
