Folks this checkerboard will be queen size just in case you thought a smaller quilt. The last time I talked with her about what size she wanted, full queen bedspread size or comforter size she wouldn't give me an answer. Think she was miffed at me at the time. No matter. I could just make red and white blocks as someone mentioned and then quilt something in each block in the opposite colored thread so they stand out. At that rate the blocks will be at least 8-10 inches as I don't even want to think smaller and custom quilting the darn thing.
Thanks again for your suggestions as it does give me ideas to look at. To think such a simple idea is causing me so much grief in the planning of it. I have been collecting various reds and white/neutral fabrics for variation.