I could really use help
 

I've been looking for months for a nice, not to hard pattern to make a kings size quilt for my bed. I have the book, Encyclopedia of Classic Quilt Patterns and on page 250 there is a pattern called Repeating Crosses. I thought looks easy, I can do this. I went out bought all the fabric needed and now can't make the block. I can't seem to be able to get the triangle units cut correctly so that they line up. I even made a template. And yes I did starch the fabric before cutting. Can anyone share tips or tricks for making this block? I'm even open to different pattern ideas that would be easier. I'd really appreciate any help.

what is the exact problem? could you show us pics of where things are going wrong? sometimes it is easier to cut oversized squares- draw a diagonal line- sew a scant 1/4" on each side of the line- then cut on the line-which gives you (2) 1/2 square triangles which you can then trim to the correct size....bias edges are often a problem for lots of people- even those of us who have been sewing for decades. there are many easy (beginner friendly) patterns out there- and generally adding extra rows of blocks or additional borders to get them from a queen to a king is fairly easy- just means making extra blocks or borders....anyway- show us some pictures of what is going on and someone will be able to help you out with this.

will have to see the block to give informed opinion

Is this the quilt you are making?

YES that's the quilt. Yours looks so nice. After you make the 3 1/2 in strip how did you cut it?

How about looking at this quilt this way......

This graphic shows part of the quilt as four blocks set beside another four blocks.
As shown the top could be made of the individual segments shown below the 4 blocks.

Print out this graphic in multiples and cut it up, set it together to make the whole quilt. You'll see how theey join to use just the four little segments shown below the block graphic.

Jan in VA

That's how I would do it to, except I don't think the quarter square triangle is needed.

So much for a simple block. Thank you Jan in VA for this diagram. I didn't even see it like this. The problem for me with this diagram is that I have no idea how to figure out the sizes of all these pieces. I'm so discouraged and feel so dumb.

DO NOT feel dumb!!! I've quilted for years and am still confused looking at that! The blame should be the author or designer that did NOT make the instructions easy to understand!!! If all else fails and you still can't "get it", take the instructions and pieces to the local quilt shop and ask for HELP!!! Usually there is someone (maybe not the store clerk) that is willing to help.

The very simplest way would be to paper-piece the block. It could be done in 2 pieces which would be sewn together. Then trim them and then sew them together. It would also be easy to print them out in different sizes. I would be happy to design them on EQ and then send the papers to you.