Proper name for this block and help with math
 

I want to make the following block:

[ATTACH=CONFIG]556735[/ATTACH]

I tried Google but came up with so many different names i.e. square in a square, diamond in a square, etc; and I also struggled to find instructions to make one that is not paper pieced. The block should finish at 8.5" x 8.5" so I'm guessing the centre block (1) is cut at 4.5" x 4.5".......... and that's as far as I got before brain freeze set in :shock: Am I right? And how big do I cut the first set of triangles (2, 3, 4 & 5) and the second set (6, 7, 8 & 9)?

Also, if you've made this block, is it quite easy to be accurate or would you recommend cutting the triangles slightly bigger and trimming down at each stage as with HST's?

Many thanks!

Square in a square. Visit Quilters Cache for instructions to make many blocks in various sizes, including this one.

Should add -- as far as ( proper name) almost every block has a variety of names. Different areas, regions have their own names for the blocks that have been ( passed down) through the generations. There really isn't just one ( proper) name. :)

I've made this sized monkey wrench block without paper piecing.

Piece 1: cut one 4 1/4" square.
Pieces 2-5: cut two 4" squares. Cut each square diagonally once. Sew on pieces (will be oversized). Trim block to 6 1/8". (or just a thread over, but that is difficult to measure)
Pieces 6-9: cut two 5" squares. Cut each square diagonally once. Sew on pieces (they will be oversized). Trim to 8 1/2".

I don't know if there is a proper name or this block. I have always called in a square within a square within a square! It is a block that you have to carefully piece so you don't loose any corners or points. If you oversize the triangles, make sure you do the center fold technique so the triangle is sewn in the correct position. I probably would PP them for accuracy.

Quilter's cache is a great source... they even have blocks by finished size. Your block is called the economy block. Here's a link to the 7" finished size and is paper pieced http://www.quilterscache.com/E/EconomyBlock.html
They do not have it as an 8" finished.

Thank you Rebecca for posting the 8" size which will be perfect for the I Spy quilt that I am planning for my grandson. I have not been able to "grasp" paper piecing so this is perfect for me.

Love Quilter's Cache. I have it in favorites as "Blocks Galore"

OK, I just had to test my new EQ7... so here is a pdf of rotary cutting for the 8" Economy Block

Wow! Such an awesome response! Thank you everyone for your help with this block. I am learning more about quilting every day and members on this board have such a wealth of knowledge to share. :) Thank you!