Arkansas Crossroads Step 3:
So far we have put together the 16 patch blocks, and also the X blocks to comprise our quilt. Now it's time to join these to complete our quilt center, and then make the border blocks.
Returning to our layout, be sure you have the X blocks in the proper placement to complete your colored motifs. (If you are making the all-scrappy version you can place the X blocks between any two 16 patches, as appeals to you).
Next, join your blocks to complete the center. Press as desired.
Now we need to cut more 4.5" squares to construct the border. Using your background fabric, cut 36 4.5" squares for the baby quilt, (or 48 for the throw quilt size.) Lay these squares out around the outside of your quilt center. Taking the leftover candy squares you saved from your incomplete blocks, lay them in the corners (face up) of the 4.5" squares where they will be sewn, just as you did for the center blocks in step 2.
In addition, place 3 more candies as shown, to complete the two diamonds in the remote corners of your quilt. In the 4x4 block layout these will be in opposite corners, in the 5x6 layout they will be in adjacent corners.
Picking up a couple of the border candies at a time, flip the 2.5" squares over and sew them right sides together, snowball style, in the corners of the border squares where you have placed them. Press as discussed in Step 2 and return to their place in the layout.
With all the border triangles sewn, join the top row of squares into one long strip. Repeat with the bottom row of squares. Then sew each side column of squares together. Press all seams and set aside for next week, Step 4: Completing the Quilt.
Last edited by sewbizgirl; 03-18-2016 at 12:46 PM.