March is coming in like a lion! There has definitely been some wild weather this winter in the US, but spring is on it’s way. I am celebrating with a cheery green churn dash that is just a little bit different. Here is my Long Dash block, #3 in the 2023 Block of the Month that features rectangular blocks.

We need to stretch things a bit for the traditional Churn Dash to finish at 6 x 9 inches, so we will elongate that center section.

The Long Dash block comes together quickly with half-square triangles in the corners, and bars constructed with strip sets.

Speaking of strip sets, did you catch last week’s video on YouTube? I made a variety of classic blocks out from just a few strips.

You can watch it here:

Once you have the strip sets and HSTs, cut one more piece of background fabric for the center, and lay out all the components as a nine patch block.

Download the free pattern here.

These blocks are so quick and easy to make, it’s hard to stop after only one! So make a bunch more, and put them together in this new pattern, Contained.

Such a cool effect to have an oversize block acting as the border! I can’t wait to get my sample finished. If you’d like to sew along, find the pattern here. It has layouts for lap, twin and queen sized quilts.What is your preferred size?

Grab the Contained pattern at 50% off throughout the month of March.