Learn to make the counterchange quilt block two different ways.

Want a scrappy block? Check out the scrap method.

Want a two-tone block? Check out the strip method.

Both are easy to make and perfect for beginners.

COUNTERCHANGE CROSS QUILT BLOCK (TWO METHODS!)

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SUPPLIES NEEDED FOR QUILTING

There aren't any specialty items needed for this quilt block. Just basic quilting tools like a sewing machine, rotary cutter and mat, and iron.
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PRINTABLE PATTERN

Want to skip the ads and get straight to quilting? Check out my printable pattern.

It includes both methods for making the counterchange cross block in three sizes. 6", 9", & 12".

GET THE PRINTABLE PATTERN HERE

HOW TO MAKE A COUNTERCHANGE CROSS QUILT BLOCK USING THE SCRAP METHOD

These instructions are to make a 6 inch block. The scrap method is great for using up your stash.

All seams are 1/4 inch. Remember right sides together.

FABRIC CUT LIST (SCRAP METHOD, 6" BLOCK)

4) 2 1/2" squares (2 color, 2 white)
4) 1 1/2" squares (2 color, 2 white)
8) 1 1/2" X 2 1/2" rectangles (4 color, 4 white)

fabric pieces cut for the counterchange cross block

MAKING THE FOUR PATCH UNIT

Let's get started by making the center four patch unit.

Select the four small squares. Sew a white square to a color square.

Press the seams toward the color fabric.

Arrange the strips so that the colors are on opposite sides. Sew the two strips together. Press flat.

MAKING THE SIDE SQUARES

Next, let's make the sides of the block.

Sew each colored rectangle to a white rectangle. Stitch along the long side. Press the blocks flat.

ASSEMBLING THE COUNTERCHANGE CROSS BLOCK (SCRAP METHOD)

Now that all the units are made, it's time to assemble the block.

arranging units in a nine patch formation

Arrange the squares in a nine patch formation.

The four patch goes in the center. The rectangle strip squares go on the sides and the solid squares in the corners.

As you arrange the block, make sure that each color is surrounded by white. Colors should not be touching except at the corners.

Next, sew each row of squares.

Press the center row seams toward the outside. Press the top and bottom row seams toward the middle.

Sew all the rows together, nesting seams as you go. Press flat.

HOW TO MAKE A COUNTERCHANGE CROSS BLOCK WITH THE STRIP METHOD

The strip method features two colors for a bold contrast.

This method is faster and even easier than the scrap method.

FABRIC CUT LIST (STRIP METHOD)

4) 2 1/2" squares (4 red, 4 white)
2) 1 1/2" X 13 1/2" strips (1 red, 1 white)

MAKING THE STRIP PIECES

This method cuts down the piecing time. Simply sew the strips together and then trim them to the correct sizes.

Sew together the two long strips along the long edge.

Cut the strip into pieces. (There is a little extra built in, so you can trim up the ends if needed.)

Cut 2) 1 1/2"
Cut 4) 2 1/2"

MAKING THE FOUR PATCH

Select the two 1 1/2" pieces you just cut.

Arrange them so that the red squares are on opposite ends. Stitch them together and press flat.

ASSEMBLING THE COUNTERCHANGE CROSS BLOCK (STRIP METHOD)

At this point, the assembly is the same as the scrap method.

arranging the counterchange cross quilt block

Arrange the block with the four patch in the center, the strip squares on the sides and the solid squares in the corners.

Again, make sure that pieces alternate between red and white.