The Double Disappearing Nine Patch is a delightful quilt pattern that combines simplicity and visual intrigue. This pattern is perfect for both beginners and experienced quilters who wish to explore a fun and engaging quilting project.
In this tutorial, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of creating your very own Double Disappearing Nine Patch quilt.
Prepare to transform basic squares into a stunning design that will add character to any room!
Understanding the Double Disappearing Nine Patch
The Double Disappearing Nine Patch quilt pattern is an evolution of the traditional Nine Patch block. It begins with a simple 9-patch design and undergoes two transformations, creating a visually complex and dynamic quilt block. This method is not only enjoyable but also allows you to showcase your fabric choices, making it an excellent project for fabric enthusiasts.
The beauty of this pattern lies in its versatility. You can use a variety of fabrics, from bold prints to soft pastels, allowing for endless customization. Whether you’re making a cozy quilt for your home or a gift for a loved one, the Double Disappearing Nine Patch is sure to impress.
Before we jump into the cutting and sewing, let’s gather the necessary materials and tools to ensure a smooth quilting experience.
Materials Needed for the Double Disappearing Nine Patch
To create your Double Disappearing Nine Patch quilt, you will need the following materials:
- Fabric: Choose a combination of fabrics to create your 9-patch blocks. For a quilt that measures approximately 60″ x 72″, you will need:
- 1/4 yard each of 3 different fabrics for the patch blocks (light, medium, dark).
- 1 yard of fabric for the quilt backing.
- 1/2 yard for the binding.
- Cutting Tools: A rotary cutter, cutting mat, and quilting ruler are essential for making precise cuts. These tools will help you achieve accurate measurements, which is critical for piecing the blocks together smoothly.
- Sewing Tools: A sewing machine with a quarter-inch foot, matching thread, and pins will be necessary for assembling your quilt. A seam ripper is also handy in case you need to make any adjustments during the sewing process.
Having these materials ready will set the stage for a successful quilting project.
Cutting the Fabric Pieces
Accurate cutting is vital in quilting, especially for the Double Disappearing Nine Patch. Follow these steps to prepare your fabric:
- Cutting Squares for the 9-Patch: Start by cutting your chosen fabrics into squares. You will need:
- 9 squares of your light fabric measuring 5 inches each.
- 9 squares of your medium fabric measuring 5 inches each.
- 9 squares of your dark fabric measuring 5 inches each.
- Creating the 9-Patch Blocks: Once you have your squares, it’s time to sew them into 9-patch blocks. Lay out your squares in a 3×3 grid, alternating colors for visual interest. Sew the squares together in rows, then join the rows to complete your 9-patch block. Press the seams flat after sewing.
- Preparing for the Double Disappearance: After creating your initial 9-patch blocks, you should have a total of 9 blocks. Trim each block to measure 10 inches square, allowing for any uneven edges. This will be the foundation for the Double Disappearing Nine Patch.
With all your squares cut and your 9-patch blocks assembled, you’re ready for the next phase of the tutorial.
The First Disappearance
Now that you have your 9-patch blocks ready, it’s time to perform the first disappearance. This process will create new shapes from the existing blocks, enhancing the overall design.
- Cutting the 9-Patch Blocks: Take one of your 10-inch 9-patch blocks and cut it in half vertically and horizontally, creating four equal squares. Each square should measure 5 inches. Repeat this step for all 9 blocks.
- Rearranging the Squares: Now, you’ll have a total of 36 squares. Mix and match these squares to create new combinations. The idea is to shuffle the colors to achieve a balanced look across the blocks. This is where creativity plays a vital role; take your time to find the perfect arrangement.
- Sewing the New Blocks: Once you have arranged the squares to your satisfaction, sew them together in a 4-patch formation (two squares on top and two on the bottom). Press the seams flat. You will end up with 9 new blocks, each showcasing a fresh design derived from your original 9-patch.
This first disappearance has set the stage for the next transformation in our quilting journey.
The Second Disappearance
The next step in creating the Double Disappearing Nine Patch is the second disappearance. This stage will add even more complexity and beauty to your quilt blocks.
- Cutting the New Blocks: Take one of your newly created blocks (which should now measure 10 inches square) and cut it in half again both vertically and horizontally. This will give you four smaller squares measuring 5 inches each. Repeat this for all 9 blocks.
- Rearranging Again: Just like before, shuffle and rearrange the resulting squares. This step is crucial for achieving a balanced and aesthetically pleasing design. Take your time and consider how different color combinations can create visual movement in your quilt.
- Sewing the Final Blocks: Once you’ve arranged your squares, sew them together in the same manner as before to create the final blocks. You will end up with 9 new blocks, each featuring a unique arrangement of your original fabrics. Press the seams once more to ensure they lay flat.
You now have a series of intricately designed blocks ready to be assembled into a beautiful quilt!
Assembling the Quilt Top
With your blocks completed, it’s time to assemble the quilt top. This is where your Double Disappearing Nine Patch begins to take shape as a cohesive piece.
- Laying Out the Blocks: Arrange your blocks in rows. A layout of 3 rows of 3 blocks works well, but feel free to experiment with the arrangement to create the look you desire. Take a step back and assess the overall balance of colors and patterns.
- Sewing the Rows Together: Start by sewing the blocks together in each row. Use a quarter-inch seam allowance and press the seams open as you go. Once the rows are complete, sew the rows together to form the quilt top.
- Final Pressing: After assembling your quilt top, give it a final press. This step ensures that all seams are flat and that your quilt top looks polished and professional.
Your quilt top is now ready for the next stage!
Preparing the Quilt Sandwich
Before you can finish your Double Disappearing Nine Patch quilt, you need to prepare the quilt sandwich. This consists of the quilt top, batting, and backing fabric.
- Selecting Batting: Choose a batting that complements your quilt’s intended use. Cotton batting is popular for its breathability and softness. Cut your batting to the size of your quilt top, allowing for an additional 2-3 inches on all sides for trimming later.
- Cutting the Backing Fabric: Cut your backing fabric to match the size of your quilt top plus the same extra inches for trimming. This fabric will provide a beautiful finish to the back of your quilt.
- Layering the Sandwich: Lay the backing fabric right side down, then place the batting on top, followed by the quilt top right side up. Smooth out any wrinkles as you layer, ensuring all components are aligned. Pin or baste the layers together to secure them for quilting.
With your quilt sandwich prepared, you’re ready to move on to the quilting process.
Quilting Your Double Disappearing Nine Patch
Now comes the fun part—quilting! This is where you can get creative and add texture to your quilt.
- Choosing a Quilting Design: Decide on a quilting pattern that complements your quilt top. Straight-line quilting is a popular choice for this design, but you can also opt for free-motion quilting or custom designs if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Quilting the Layers: Start quilting from the center of the quilt and work your way outwards. This helps to avoid puckering. Use a walking foot or free-motion foot, depending on your chosen technique. Take your time and enjoy the process!
- Trimming the Edges: Once quilting is complete, trim any excess batting and backing fabric to match the edges of your quilt top. This ensures a neat finish and prepares your quilt for binding.
Your Double Disappearing Nine Patch quilt is now beautifully quilted and ready for the final touches!
Adding the Binding
The last step in completing your Double Disappearing Nine Patch quilt is adding the binding. This will give your quilt a polished look and provide durability.
- Cutting Binding Strips: Cut your binding fabric into strips measuring 2.5 inches wide. You will need enough strips to go around the entire perimeter of your quilt. A good rule of thumb is to calculate the total perimeter of your quilt and divide that by the width of your strips to determine how many you need.
- Sewing the Binding: Join your binding strips end to end to create one long strip. Fold the strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and press. Begin attaching the binding to the quilt by aligning the raw edges with the quilt’s edges. Sew it in place with a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
- Finishing the Binding: Once you’ve sewn the binding around the quilt, fold it over to the back and hand-stitch it in place for a clean finish. This step ensures that your binding is secure and neatly finished.
Congratulations! Your Double Disappearing Nine Patch quilt is now complete.
Conclusion
The Double Disappearing Nine Patch is a captivating quilt pattern that combines simplicity with creativity. By following this tutorial, you’ve learned the essential steps to create a stunning quilt from cutting fabric to adding the finishing touches.
Quilting is a fulfilling and artistic journey, allowing you to express your unique style while creating something beautiful. We encourage you to experiment with colors, fabrics, and techniques as you make this quilt your own. Happy quilting!
