How to Make a 6 1/2″ Shoofly Quilt Block
Originally part of my 2020 Sparkling Sampler Mystery Quilt Along, this tutorial shows you how to make the easy Shoofly quilt block. For the mystery quilt, we made two blocks, so the information listed in this article is for 2 of them. Adjust accordingly, depending on how many blocks you want to make.
Our fun challenge keeps moving along and this month is no exception. The July mystery quilt along block is another traditional one called Shoofly.
This easy-to-make block incorporates squares and half square triangles to highlight fabrics. Last month I thought that the block we did reminded me of a butterfly. This one reminds me a bit of a flower.
It is a traditional block that dates back to the 1800s, so it’s been around for a little while. I chose it for this quilt along because it is a simple and recognizable pattern that fits in well with the traditional look of the quilt.
In addition, I thought the name was appropriate for the warm summer months. I don’t know about where you live, but where I do, I am always brushing flies away in July. They drive me crazy!
Like most of the months, I am using three fabrics for my block. That way I can show off these adorable fabrics I bought for the challenge.
*Download the Free PDF Pattern for the July Mystery Quilt Along Block Here*
Fabric Requirements
- A – Fat eighth ( In my block the white with green polka dots)
- B – 7″ square ( In my block the green fabric)
- C – 5″ square ( In my block the navy fabric)
The fabrics I used for this were all from Moda and include Kelly Green on White from the Essential Dots collection. They also include Green Rainbow Ponies from the Best Friends Forever collection by Stacy Iest Hsu and Flowers on Navy from the Sweet Harmony collection by American Jane Fabrics.
The block in the video tutorial is made up of various fabrics from my stash.
Items That May Help You With This Block
You can find many of the items that I used to make this project in my Amazon Store.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Video Tutorial
For my readers who enjoy learning with videos, you can find this video along with all of the other months on my YouTube channel.
Cutting (For both blocks)
- Eight squares of fabric A – 2 ½ inches by 2 ½ inches
- Four squares of fabric A – 3 ¼ inches by 3 ¼ inches
- Four squares of fabric B – 3 ¼ inches by 3 ¼ inches
- Two squares of fabric C – 2 ½ inches by 2 ½ inches
Block Assembly
The first thing needed is to assemble the half square triangles.
To do this, draw a diagonal line on the back (wrong) side of the 3 ¼ inch square of fabric A. This will be your sewing guide.
Line up a 3 ¼ square of fabric A on top of a 3 ¼ inch square of fabric B with front (right) sides facing each other.
Using a scant ¼ inch seam allowance, sew along both sides of the line drawn earlier.
Cut down the center, along the line that was drawn earlier. You will have two blocks that now need to be pressed open and trimmed.
Trim the units down so they measure 2 ½ inches by 2 ½ inches.
Repeat until you have completed four half square triangle units.
Sew the Block
Lay out the units as shown and begin sewing the individual rows together.
First, sew together the first two units of each row.
Next, add the third unit to each row. You will now have three rows ready to sew together.
To make it easier to sew the rows together, press the top and bottom row seams towards the outside squares. Press the seams of the center row towards the center square.
The seams will nest nicely and the result will be nice and crisp points.
Repeat steps to make a second block.
The two blocks should measure 6 ½ inches by 6 ½ inches.
August’s Clue: Brightly colored toys spin beautifully in the wind.
Feel free to join in the quilt along. You can find all of the details here.
I also have this FB group for people who are participating. It’s a fun place to see what other people are doing for their blocks.
Check out what fun blocks we’ve done so far!
Show off your progress on social media! Make sure to use the hashtag #createwithclaudiaqal if you post any pictures!
*This mystery quilt along is for entertainment purposes only. There are no prizes or giveaways.* Best efforts have been made to ensure that the instructions are correct, however sometime errors occur. If you have any questions, please contact us at claudia{at}createwithclaudia{dot}com*
