If you sew 2.5in print and white strips together you will have a 4.5in wide strip. Cut these into 4.5in pieces, and yes, you will get 8 units. When you sew 4 of these together, you will have an 8.5in block. Looking at your photo you should get a quilt 88x88ins. I think this is what you were asking for? Do post a pic when done, as black is not a favourite colour for me to tackle.